Network system

ABSTRACT

A network system is provided. The network system includes: at least one component selected from an energy receiving unit receiving energy and an energy management unit managing the energy receiving unit. The energy receiving unit or the energy management unit receives energy rate related information; an energy usage amount or a usage rate of when the component is controlled on the basis of at least the energy rate related information is less than that of when the component is controlled without the basis of at least energy rate related information; if the energy rate related information is high cost information, a function of one component constituting the energy receiving unit is limited; and an operating time or an output of the energy receiving unit is adjusted in correspondence to the limited function of one component.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

1. Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to a network system.

2. Background Art

A provider has simply provided energy sources such as electricity, water and gas while a consumer has simply used the supplied energy sources. This makes difficult to realize efficient management in terms of the generation, distribution and use of energy. Therefore, a network system for effectively managing energy is in need.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION Technical Problem

Embodiments provide a network system capable of effectively managing energy sources.

Technical Solution

In one embodiment, a network system comprises: at least one component selected from an energy receiving unit receiving energy and an energy management unit managing the energy receiving unit, wherein the energy receiving unit or the energy management unit receives information related to energy cost; an energy usage amount or a usage rate of when the component is controlled on the basis of at least information related to energy rate is less than that of when the component is controlled without the basis of at least information related to energy rate; the energy receiving unit comprises an energy consumption component operated according to set courses for performing a function, and a plurality of entering conditions for entering one course of the set courses are recognized when the energy consumption component is operated.

The details of one or more embodiments are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

Advantageous Effects

According to embodiments, an energy source can be efficiently produced, used, distributed, and stored, thus enabling the effective management of the energy source.

Also, by using energy information, in-house electric products can be driven and controlled. The energy usage cost and power consumption can be reduced.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a view schematically showing an example of a network system according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing an example of the network system according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an information transmission process on the network system according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a view showing the communication structure of two components that constitute the network system according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the detailed configuration of a communication device that constitutes a communication unit.

FIG. 6 is a view showing a communication performing process between a specific component and a communication device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a view showing a communication performing process between a specific component and a communication device according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a view showing the communication structure of components that constitute the network system according to a third embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing the detailed configuration of a first component in FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 is a view showing the communication structure of components that constitute the network system according to a fourth embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing the detailed configuration of a first component in FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing an example an example of a component that constitutes the network system of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 is a schematic view illustrating a home network according to an embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an electric product according to an embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling an electric product according to an embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a washing machine capable of being applied to the network system according to an embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a block diagram of the washing machine capable of being applied to the network system according to an embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling the washing machine capable of being applied into the network system according to an embodiment.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a refrigerator capable of being applied to the network system according to an embodiment.

FIG. 20 is a block diagram of the refrigerator capable of being applied to the network system according to an embodiment.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling the refrigerator capable of being applied into the network system according to an embodiment.

FIG. 22 is a block diagram of a refrigerator capable of being applied to the network system according to another embodiment.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling the refrigerator capable of being applied into the network system according to another embodiment.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a water purifier capable of being applied to the network system according to an embodiment.

FIG. 25 is a block diagram of the water purifier capable of being applied to the network system according to an embodiment.

FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling the water purifier capable of being applied into the network system according to an embodiment.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Reference will now be made in detail to the embodiments of the present disclosure, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

Reference will now be made in detail to the embodiments of the present disclosure, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a view schematically showing an example of a network system according to the present disclosure.

The network system is a system for managing an energy source such as electricity, water or gas. The energy source means one of which amount generated or used can be metered. Therefore, even a source not mentioned above may be used as the energy source. Hereinafter, electricity will be described as an example of the energy source, and details of this specification may be identically applied to other energy sources.

Referring to FIG. 1, a network system according to an embodiment includes a power plant for producing electricity. The power plant may include a power plant for producing electricity through a thermal power generation or nuclear power generation and a power plant using water power, sunlight power, wind power or the like which is eco-friendly energy.

The electricity produced in the power plant is transmitted to a sub-control center through a power transmission line, and the sub-control center transmits the electricity to a substation so that the electricity is distributed to customers such as houses or offices.

Electricity produced by the eco-friendly energy is also transmitted to the substation so as to be distributed to each of the customers. The electricity transmitted from the substation is distributed to each of the offices or houses through electricity power storage, or is directly distributed to each of the offices or houses.

In a house using a home area network (HAN), electricity may be produced by itself through sunlight, fuel cells built in a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), or the like. Also, the produced electricity may be stored or distributed, or surplus electricity may be resold to the outside world.

The network system may include a smart meter for detecting the amount of electricity used in each customer (house, office or the like) in real time, and an advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) for metering the amount of electricity used in a plurality of customers.

The network system may further include an energy management system (EMS) for managing energy. The EMS may generate information on operations of one or more components with respect to energy (production of energy, distribution of energy, usage of energy, storage of energy, and the like). The EMS may generate at least a command for the operations of the components.

In this specification, a function or solution performed by the EMS may be referred to as an energy management function or energy management solution.

In the network system, one or more EMSs may be provided as a separate configuration, or the EMS may be included as an energy management function or energy management solution in one or more components.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing an example of the network system according to the present disclosure.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the network system according to the present disclosure is configured by a plurality of components. For example, the components of the network system are a power plant, a substation, a sub-control center, an EMS, electric home appliances, a smart meter, a storage battery, a web server, an AMI, a home server, and the like.

In the present disclosure, each of the components may be configured by a plurality of sub-components. As an example, in a case of one component is an electric home appliance, sub-components may be a microcomputer (MICOM), a heater, a display and the like. That is, all that perform a specific function may be components in the present disclosure, and such components constitute the network system of the present disclosure. Two components may communicate with each other by means of a communication unit. One network may be one component or may be configured by a plurality of components.

In this specification, the network system in which communication information is related to an energy source may be referred to as an energy grid.

A network system according to an embodiment may include a utility area network (UAN) 10 and a home area network (HAN) 20. The UAN 10 and the HAN 20 may perform wired or wireless communication by means of a communication unit, and may perform two-way communication.

In this specification, the term “home” means not only a household as a lexical meaning but also a group in which specific components such as buildings or companies gather. Also, the term “utility” means a group in which specific components outside the home gather.

The UAN 10 includes an energy generation component 11 for generating energy, an energy distribution component 12 for distributing or transmitting energy, an energy storage component 13 for storing energy, an energy management component 14 for managing energy, and an energy metering component 15 for metering information related to energy.

In a case where one or more components that constitute the UAN 10 consume energy, the components that consume the energy may be energy consumption components.

The energy consumption component is a component corresponding to the energy consumption component 26 that constitutes the HAN 20. The energy consumption component may be the same component as the energy consumption component 26 or may be another component distinguished from the energy consumption component 26.

The energy generation component 11 may be a power plant as an example. The energy distribution component 12 distributes or transmits energy generated in the energy generation component 11 and/or energy stored in the energy storage component 13 to the energy consumption component 26 that consumes the energy. The energy distribution component 12 may be a power transmitter, substation, sub-control center, or the like.

The energy storage component 13 may be a storage battery, and the energy management component 14 generates information for driving one or more of the energy generation component 11, the energy distribution component 12, the energy storage component 13 and the energy consumption component 26, related to energy. The energy management component 14 may generate at least a command for the operation of a specific component.

The energy management component 14 may be an EMS. The energy metering component 15 may meter information related to the generation of energy, the distribution of energy, the usage of energy, the storage of energy, and the like. The energy metering component 15 may be an AMI as an example. The energy management component 14 may be a separate configuration, or may be included in another component as an energy management function.

The UAN 10 may communicate with the HAN 20 by a terminal component (not shown). That is, information generated or transferred in a specific component that constitutes the UAN 10 may be transmitted to the HAN 20 through the terminal component, or information generated or transferred in another component that constitutes the HAN 20 may be received to the UAN 10 through the terminal component. The terminal component may be a gate way as an example. The terminal component may be provided to one or more of the UAN 10 and the HAN 20.

The terminal component may be a component necessary for transmitting/receiving information between the UAN and the HAN.

Two components that constitute the UAN 10 may communicate with each other by means of a communication unit.

The HAN 20 includes an energy generation component 21 for generating energy, an energy distribution component 22 for distributing energy, an energy storage component 23 for storing energy, an energy management component 24 for managing energy, an energy metering component 25 for metering information related to energy, an energy consumption component 26 for consuming energy, a central management component 27 for controlling a plurality of components, and an energy grid assistance component 28.

The energy generation component 21 may be a home power generator, and the energy storage component 23 may be a storage battery. The energy management component 24 may be an EMS. As an example, the energy generation component 21 may be a solar cell, a fuel cell, a wind power generator, a power generator using subterranean heat, a power generator using seawater, or the like.

The energy storage component 23 may perform storage using energy generated from the energy generation component 21. Therefore, in view of the use of energy, the energy storage component 23 and the energy generation component 11 may be an energy using component that uses energy together with the energy consumption component 26. That is, the energy using component may include at least an energy consumption component, an energy generation component and an energy storage component. In a case where the energy management component uses energy, it may be included in the energy using component.

In view of the supplied energy, the energy storage component 23, the energy consumption component and the energy generation component 11 may be an energy supplied component to which energy is supplied.

The energy metering component 25 may meter information related to the generation of energy, the distribution of energy, the usage of energy, the storage of energy, and the like. The energy metering component 25 may be a smart meter as an example. The energy consumption component 26 may be, as an example, an electric home appliance or a heater, motor, display or the like, which constitutes the electric home appliance. In this embodiment, there is no limitation in the kind of the energy consumption component 26.

Specifically, the energy generation component 21 may be another component of the UAN 10, which generates energy to be supplied to the HAN 20.

The energy management component 24 may be provided as a separate configuration or may be included in another component as an energy management function. As an example, the energy management function may be performed by a control component that controls the energy consumption component. In a case where the control component performs the energy management function, it may be an energy management component.

Specifically, the energy management component 14 that constitutes the UAN 10 or the energy management component 24 that constitutes the HAN 20 may be built in one or more of the plurality of components that constitute the networks 10 and 20, or may exist as a separate device. The energy management component 24 may recognize the information related to energy (energy information) and the state information of a component controlled by the energy management component 24.

The energy generation component 21, the energy distribution component 22 and the energy storage component 23 may be individual components, or may constitute a single component.

The central management component 27 may be, as an example, a home server for controlling a plurality of electric home appliances.

The energy grid assistance component 28 is a component having a primary function while performing an additional function for the energy grid. For example, the energy grid assistance component 28 may be a web service providing component (e.g., a computer or the like), mobile device, television, or the like.

The mobile device may receive energy information or additional information (described later), and control the operation of at least the energy consumption component 26 using the received information.

Two components that constitute the HAN 20 may communicate with each other by means of a communication unit.

The energy generation components 11 and 21, the energy distribution components 12 and 22, the energy storage components 13 and 23, the energy management components 14 and 24, the energy metering components 15 and 25, the energy consumption component 26 and the central management component may independently exist, or two or more of them may constitute a single component.

For example, the energy management component 14 or 24, the energy metering component 15 or 25 and the central management component 27 may exist as single components so as to be configured as a smart meter, an EMS and a home server, which perform their functions, respectively. Alternatively, the energy management component 14 or 24, the energy metering component 15 or 25 and the central management component 27 may constitute a single system.

When a function is performed, it may be sequentially performed in a plurality of components and/or communication units. For example, an energy management function may be sequentially performed in the energy management component, the energy metering component and the energy consumption component.

In the network system, a plurality of UANs 10 may communicate with a single HAN 20, and a single UAN 10 may communicate with a plurality of HANs 20.

The component with a specific function, which constitutes the UAN and the HAN, may be configured as a plurality of components. For example, the energy generation component, the energy consumption component or the like may be configured as a plurality of components.

In this specification, each of the components that constitute the UAN and HAN may having a function performing component that performs its own function, or each of the components itself may be a function performing component.

As an example, in a case where the energy consumption component is an electric product, the electric product has a function performing component such as a heater, compressor, motor or display. As another example, in a case where the energy consumption component is a heater, compressor, motor, display or the like, the energy consumption component itself is a function performing component.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an information transmission process on the network system according to the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 3, in the network system according to the present disclosure, a specific component 30 may receive information related to energy (hereinafter, referred to as energy information 40) by means of a communication unit. The specific component 30 may further receive additional information (environment information, time information and the like) by means of the communication unit. In this instance, the information may be received from another component. That is, at least energy information is contained in the received information.

The specific component 30 may be a component that constitutes the UAN 10 or a component that constitutes the HAN 20.

As described above, the energy information 40 may be one of information related to electricity, water, gas and the like. Hereinafter, information related to electricity will be described as an example of the energy information, but information related to other energy sources may be identically applied.

For example, the kind of information related to the electricity may include time-based pricing, curtailment, grid emergency, grid reliability, energy increment, operation priority, and the like.

The information may be divided into scheduled information previously produced based on previous information, and real-time information changed in real time. The scheduled information and the real-time information may be divided by whether or not predict information after the current time (in the future).

The energy information 40 may be transmitted/received as a true or false signal such as a Boolean signal on the network system, or may be transmitted/received as a real price. Alternatively, the energy information 40 may be transmitted/received by being divided into a plurality of levels.

The energy information 40 may be divided into time of use (TOU) information, critical peak pattern (CPP) information or real time pattern (RTP) information according to the change in the pattern of data with respect to time.

According to the TOU information, a data is changed step by step depending on time. According to the CPP information, a data is changed step by step or in real time depending on time, and emphasis is displayed at a specific point of time. According to RTP information, a data is changed in real time depending on time.

In a case where the energy information is time-based pricing information as an example, the time-based pricing information is changed. The time-based pricing information may be transmitted/received as a true or false signal such as a Boolean signal on the network system, or may be transmitted/received as a real price. Alternatively, the time-based pricing information may be transmitted/received by being divided into a plurality of levels.

In a case where the specific component 30 receives a true or false signal such as a Boolean signal, one signal may be recognized as an on-peak signal, and the other signal may be recognized as an off-peak signal.

Alternatively, the specific component 30 may recognize information on at least one drive, which contains the time-based information, and may recognize an on-peak or off-peak signal by comparing the value of the recognized information with the value of reference information.

For example, in a case where the specific component 30 recognizes information divided into levels or real pricing information, it recognizes an on-peak or off-peak signals by comparing the value of the recognized information with the value of reference information.

In this case, the value of the information on drive may be at least one of time-based pricing, electric energy, the variation of time-based pricing, the variation of electric energy, the average of time-based pricing and the average of electric energy. The value of reference information may be at least one of an average, the average between maximum and minimum values of power information during a predetermined period of time and the reference variation of power information during the predetermined period of time (e.g., the slope of consumed electric energy per unit time).

The value of reference information may be determined in real time or may be previously determined. The value of reference information may be determined on the UAN or may be determined on the HAN (a customer's direct input or an input from the energy management component, the central management component or the like).

In a case where the specific component 30 (e.g., the energy consumption component) recognizes an on-peak signal (e.g., at a point of time of recognition), an output may be determined as zero (stop or maintenance of a stop state) or may be decreased. If necessary, the output may be restored or increased. The driving scheme of the specific component may be previously determined before the specific component is operated, or may be changed when the specific component recognizes an on-peak signal posterior to the start of operation.

Alternatively, in a case where the specific component 30 recognizes an on-peak signal (e.g., at a point of time of recognition), the output is maintained under an operable condition. In this case, the operable condition means that the value of the information on drive is less than a predetermined reference. The value of the information on drive may be time-based pricing, consumed electric energy, operation time, or the like. The predetermined reference may be a relative or absolute value.

The predetermined reference may be determined in real time or may be previously determined. The predetermined reference may be determined on the UAN or may be determined on the HAN (a customer's direct input or an input from the energy management component, the central management component or the like).

Alternatively, in a case where the specific component recognizes high-cost information, the output of the specific component may be maintained or increased when the difference between a state information value and a reference value is within a predetermined range. For example, in a case where a compressor of a refrigerator is not operated in a low-cost section, the temperature of a cool chamber or freezing chamber is increased. Therefore, the compressor is necessarily turned on when the temperature of the cool chamber or freezing chamber approaches a reference temperature. In a case where a high-cost section comes after the compressor is turned on, the compressor maintains a current output when the difference between the temperature of the cool chamber or freezing chamber and the reference temperature is within a predetermined range. In a case where a user selects a button for cancelling power saving in the state that the specific component 30 recognizes the high-cost information, the output of the specific component may be maintained.

Alternatively, in a case where the specific component 30 recognizes an on-peak signal (e.g., at a point of time of recognition), the output may be increased. However, although the output is increased at the point of time when the specific component recognizes the on-peak signal, the total output amount of the specific component during the entire drive period may be decreased or maintained as compared with that when the specific component is operated at a normal output level. Alternatively, although the output is increased at the point of time when the specific component recognizes the on-peak signal, the total consumed power or total time-based pricing of the specific component during the entire operation period may be decreased as compared that when the specific component is operated at a normal output level.

In a case where the specific component 30 recognizes an off-peak signal (e.g., at a point of time of recognition), the output may be increased. For example, in a case where the operation reservation of the specific component is set up, the drive of the specific component may be started before the setup time, or a component having a large output among a plurality of components may be first driven. In a case where the specific component is a refrigerator, supercooling may be performed by increasing an output as compared with the existing output (change in the state of cool air that is a medium for performing the function of the refrigerator). In a case where the specific component is a washing machine or washer, hot water may be stored by driving a heater earlier than the time when the heater is to be operated (storage of hot water that is an additional medium for performing the function of the washing machine or washer). Alternatively, in a case where the specific component is a refrigerator, cool air may be stored in a separate supercooling chamber by increasing an output as compared with the existing output. Alternatively, in a case where the specific component recognizes an off-peak signal (e.g., at a point of time of recognition), electricity may be stored.

The curtailment information is information related to a mode in which the specific component is stopped or a small amount of time-based pricing is taken. As an example, the curtailment information may be transmitted/received as a true or false signal such as a Boolean signal on the network system.

If the specific component 30 recognizes curtailment information, the output may be determined as zero (stop or maintenance of a stop state) or may be decreased as described above.

The grid emergency information is information related to a power failure or the like. As an example, the grid emergency information may be transmitted/received as a true or false signal such as a Boolean signal on the network system. The information related to a power failure or the like has a relation with the reliability of a component using energy.

In a case where the specific component 30 recognizes grid emergency information, it may be immediately shut down.

The grid reliability information is information related to the supply amount of electricity supplied or information related to the quality of electricity. The grid reliability information may be transmitted/received as a true or false signal such as a Boolean signal on the network system, or may be determined by a component (e.g., an electric home appliance) through the frequency of AC power supplied to the component.

That is, if a frequency lower than the frequency of AC power supplied to the component is sensed, it may be determined that the amount of electricity supplied is small (information on the deficiency of the amount of electricity supplied). If a frequency higher than the frequency of AC power supplied to the component is sensed, it may be determined that the amount of electricity supplied is large (information on the excess of the amount of electricity supplied).

In a case where the specific component recognizes shortage of the amount of electricity or poor quality of electricity in the grid reliability information, an output may be determined as zero (stop or maintenance of a stop state) or may be decreased. If necessary, the output may be restored or increased.

On the other hand, in a case where the specific component recognizes the information on the excess of the amount of electricity supplied, the output may be increased, or the operation may be converted from an off-state to an on-state.

The energy increment information is information related to a state that surplus electricity is generated because the amount of electricity used by a component is less than that of power generation. As an example, the energy increment information may be transmitted/received as a true or false signal such as a Boolean signal on the network system.

In a case where the specific component 30 recognizes energy increment information, the output may be increased. For example, in a case where the operation reservation of the specific component is set up, the drive of the specific component may be started before the setup time, or a component having a large output among a plurality of components may be first driven. In a case where the specific component is a refrigerator, supercooling may be performed by increasing an output as compared with the existing output. In a case where the specific component is a washing machine or a washer, hot water may be stored by driving a heater earlier than the time when the heater is to be operated. Alternatively, in a case where the specific component recognizes an off-peak signal (e.g., at a point of time of recognition), electricity may be stored.

Meanwhile, in a case where the specific component 30 is the energy storage component 13 or 23, the energy storage component 13 or 23 may store electricity by receiving the electricity supplied from the UAN, for example, when electricity storage cost is smaller than a predetermined value.

However, in a case where the energy storage component 23 is connected to the energy generation component 21 that constitutes the HAN, it may continuously store energy generated by the energy generation component 21 until the electricity storage is completed. That is, the energy generated while the energy generation component 21 generates energy may be stored in the energy storage component 23.

The presence of completion of the electricity storage is determined while the energy storage component 13 or 23 stores electricity. In a case where the electricity storage is completed, the electricity supply for the electricity storage is cut off. Specifically, the presence of completion of the electricity storage may be determined using a sensor that senses the voltage, temperature or current of the energy storage component 13 or 23. The cutoff of the electricity supply may be performed using a switch (or circuit breaker) provided to a supply stage through which the electricity is supplied to the energy storage unit 13 or 23.

The electricity storage cost may be cost consumed in the electricity storage for a specific time period or electricity cost at a specific time.

As an example, in a case where the electricity storage cost is in an off-peak section (in a case where the specific component recognizes low-cost information which will be described later), the energy storage component 13 or 23 may store electricity. Alternatively, in a case where an on-peak section corresponds to an allowance section (in a case where the specific component recognizes high-cost information which will be described later), the energy storage component 13 or 23 may store in the on-peak section. In this instance, the allowance section is a section in which a power consumption information value is less than a predetermined reference. The power consumption information value may be a electricity cost, a power consumption amount, a time range, or the like. The predetermined reference may be a predetermined cost, a predetermined power consumption amount, a predetermined time, or the like. The predetermined reference may be a relative value or absolute value, and may be changed automatically or manually.

The energy storage component 13 or 23 may store a counter electromotive force generated when an energy consumption component that is rotatably operated or a motor provided to the energy consumption component is stopped (rotated).

Alternatively, the energy storage component 13 or 23 may store electricity using an energy consumption component that is rotatably operated or a motor provided to the energy consumption component. For example, in a case where the energy consumption component is a refrigerator, the energy storage component 13 or 23 may store electricity generated when a fan motor provided to the refrigerator is rotated (the fan motor may serve as a power generator or may be connected to the power generator). Alternatively, in a case where the energy consumption component is a washing machine, the energy storage component 13 or 23 may store electricity generated when a motor that rotates a drum for accommodating the laundry is rotated. In a case where the energy consumption component is a cooking appliance, the energy storage component 13 or 23 may store electricity generated when a motor for rotating a cooling fan is rotated. In a case where the energy consumption component is an air cleaner, the energy storage component 13 or 23 may store electricity generated when a motor for rotating a fan is rotated. That is, in this embodiment, in a case where a motor is provided regardless of the kind of the energy consumption component, the energy storage component 13 or 23 may store electricity generated when the motor is rotated. Alternatively, in a case where a power generator is connected to a fan rotated by the flow of air (natural flow or forcible flow), the energy storage component 13 or 23 may store electricity generated by the power generator.

The electricity stored in the energy component 13 or 23 may be supplied to one or more energy consumption components 26. In a case where electricity cost is higher than a reference value, the electricity stored in the energy component 13 or 23 may be supplied to the energy consumption component 26. As an example, in a case where the electricity cost is an on-peak (in a case where the specific component recognizes the high-cost information), the electricity stored in the energy storage component 13 or 23 may be supplied to the energy consumption component 26. In a case where the electricity cost is an off-peak (in a case where the specific component recognizes the low-cost information) but is close to the on-peak, the electricity stored in the energy storage component 13 or 21 may be supplied to the energy consumption component. If the electricity stored in the energy storage component 13 or 23 is less than a predetermined value, electricity generated in the energy generation component 11 is supplied to the energy consumption component. Thus, it is possible to prevent the operation of the energy consumption component from being stopped due to the cutoff of the electricity supply while the energy consumption component is operated.

In a case where the supply of electricity generated in the energy generation component 11 is cut off by interruption of electric power, the electricity stored in the energy component 13 or 23 may be supplied to the energy consumption component. In a case where the energy consumption component is an electric product, the electricity stored in the energy storage component 13 or 23 may be supplied to a communication unit or control unit provided to the electric product.

The electricity stored in the energy component 13 or 23 may be supplied to a portion of a plurality of energy consumption components. As an example, the stored electricity may be supplied to an electric product such as a refrigerator required in continuous operation among a plurality of electric products. Alternatively, the stored electricity may be supplied to an energy consumption component with relatively low power among a plurality of energy consumption components that constitute one electric product. It will be apparent that the stored electricity is supplied to an energy consumption component with high power. Alternatively, when a course using a relatively small amount of power is performed among a plurality of courses in which an electric product is performed, the stored electricity may be supplied. It will be apparent that the stored electricity may be supplied even when a course using a large amount of power is performed.

Meanwhile, in a case where electricity is generated and stored by a fan or motor as described above, the electricity stored in the energy storage component 13 or 23 may be supplied to an energy consumption unit with relatively low power. As an example, the electricity stored in the energy storage component 13 or 23 may be supplied to an LED lamp, a display, a control unit, a communication unit, a low-power heater, or the like. Alternatively, in a case where the energy consumption component performs a plurality of courses, the electricity stored in the energy storage component 13 or 23 may be supplied to the energy consumption component in a course that requires low power.

The energy storage component 23 may be built in connected to one energy consumption component. Alternatively, a plurality of energy storage components 23 may be built in or connected to a plurality of energy consumption components, respectively. Alternatively, a plurality of energy storage components 23 may be built in or connected to one energy consumption component. The plurality of energy storage components 23 may be connected to one another to share the stored electricity.

Among the information related to energy, the on-peak information, the curtailment information and information on the deficiency of the amount of electricity supplied may be recognized as high-cost information considered that energy cost is relatively expensive. In this instance, the section in which the high-cost information is recognized by the specific component may referred to as a low-cost section.

On the other hand, among the information related to energy, the off-peak information, the energy increment information and the information on the excess of the amount of electricity supplied may be recognized as low-cost information considered that energy cost is relatively cheap. In this instance, the section in which the low-cost information is recognized by the specific component may be referred to as a low-cost section.

The information related to the fluctuation of the energy cost (high-cost or low-cost information) may be recognized as information for determining a power saving driving scheme of the specific component (e.g., the energy consumption component). That is, the information related to the fluctuation of the energy cost may be recognized by dividing a time slot (time period) based on energy cost or pricing period (pricing zone) for determining a driving scheme of the specific component into at least two or more.

A high period means a high price time period (period of high cost) or a high pricing period and a low period means a low price time period (period of low cost) and a low pricing period.

As an example, in a case where the information related to energy is recognized as a Boolean signal, the time slot (time period) based on energy cost or pricing period (pricing zone) for determining a driving scheme of the specific component may be divided into two. In a case where the information related to energy is divided into a plurality of levels or recognized as real-time information, the time period or pricing period may be divided into three or more.

Meanwhile, the information related to energy cost corresponding to at least time may be recognized as information for determining a power saving driving scheme of the specific component. That is, the information related to energy cost may be recognized by dividing a time slot (time period) or pricing zone (time period) into at least two or more. As described above, the divided time period or pricing period may be determined based on the kinds of the recognized information (the Bloolean signal, the plurality of levels and the real-time information).

In other words, the information related to fluctuation of energy cost may be recognized by dividing a determination factor for driving the specific component into two or more, and functions on time and energy cost may be included in the determination factor.

In a case where the information related to energy cost is divided into two levels or more, the driving scheme of the specific component may be determined according to the information divided into levels.

On the other hand, in a case where the recognized information related to energy cost is not divided based on a specific reference (e.g., real-time cost information), it is compared with predetermined information, and the driving scheme of the specific component may be determined based on the compared result.

Here, the predetermined information may be reference information (e.g. reference value) for dividing the information related to energy cost, and the compared result may be whether not the information related to energy cost is more or less than the reference value.

Specifically, each of the kinds of information related to energy may be divided into first information 41 that is raw information, second information 42 that is refined information, and third information 43 that is information for performing the function of the specific component. That is, the first information is a raw data, the second information is a refined data, and the third information is a command for performing the function of the specific component.

The information related to energy is included a signal, and the signal is transmitted. In this instance, one or more of the first to third information may be transmitted several times while the content of the information is not converted but only the signal including the information is converted.

For example, as shown in FIG. 3, a component that receives a signal including the first information may convert only the signal and transmit a new signal including the first information to another component.

Therefore, it is described in this embodiment that the conversion of signal is a different concept from the conversion of information. In this instance, it can be readily understood that when the first information is converted into the second information, the signal including the first information is also converted into the signal including the second information.

However, the third information may be transmitted several times in the state that the content of the third information is converted or in the state that only the signal including the third information is converted while the content of the third information is identically maintained.

Specifically, in a case where the first information is raw information on time-based pricing, the second information may be refined information on the time-based pricing. The refined information on the time-based pricing is information in which the time-based pricing is divided into a plurality of levels or analysis information. The third information is a command generated based on the second information.

The specific component may generate, transmit or receive one or more of the first to third information. The first to third information are not necessarily transmitted or received in sequence. Only a plurality of pieces of third information without the first and second information may be transmitted in sequence or parallel. Alternatively, the first and third information may be transmitted or received together, the second and third information may be transmitted or received together, or the first and second information may be transmitted or received together.

As an example, in a case where the specific component receives the first information, it may transmit the second information or may transmit the second and third information.

In a case where the specific information receives only the third information, it may generate and transmit new third information.

Meanwhile, in the relation between two pieces of information, one is a message and the other is a response for the message. Thus, each of the components that constitute the network system may transmit or receive a message. In a case where each of the components receives a message, it may respond to the message. Therefore, in the case of an individual component, the transmission of a message is a relative concept with the response for the message.

The message may include a data (first or second information) and/or a command (third information).

The command (third information) may include a command for storing the data, a command for generating the data, a command for processing the data (including the generation of an additional data), a command for generating an additional command, a command for transmitting the additionally generated command, a command for transmitting a received command, and the like.

In this specification, the response for the received message means storage of the data, processing of the data (including generation of an additional data), generation of a new command, transmission of the newly generated command, simple transmission of a received command (including generation of a command for transmitting the received command to another component), operation, transmission of the stored information, transmission of an acknowledge message (acknowledge character or negative acknowledge character), or the like.

For example, in a case where the message is first information, the specific component that receives the first information may generate second information by processing the first information, or may generate the second information and new third information, as a response for the message.

The specific component that receives the message may provide a response related to energy. Here, the term “response” may be understood as a concept including an operation through which the specific component can perform a function. As an example, the HAN 20 may perform an operation related to energy by receiving a message.

The response (operation) related to energy, provided by the specific component, will be described in detail. For example, the specific component may be an energy consumption component.

The energy consumption component may be driven so that the energy cost when it is driven based on the recognition for energy information is reduced as compared with that when it is driven without the recognition for energy information.

The specific component may include a plurality of modes in which it is driven to perform its own function. The plurality of modes are a first mode and a second mode in which energy cost is relatively saved as compared with that in the first mode. The specific component may be driven in at least one of the first and second modes.

Here, the first mode may be a general mode and the second mode may be a power saving mode. Alternatively, the first and second modes may all be power saving modes.

The general mode may be understood as a mode in which the function of the specific component is performed without recognition of energy information. On the other hand, the power saving mode may be understood as a mode in which the function of the specific component is performed based on the recognition of energy information so as to save energy cost.

In a case where the first and second modes are power saving modes, the first mode may be specified as a driving scheme for saving energy cost and the second mode may be specified as a driving scheme in which the energy cost in the second mode is more saved than that in the first mode.

Meanwhile, in a case where the specific component (e.g., the energy consumption component) is driven, at least a portion is recognized in a driving scheme including at least drive time and course. In this case, an unrecognized portion may be generated so as to save energy cost, and a recognized portion may be converted into another scheme.

For example, at least a portion of the driving scheme may be recognized under the control of the energy management component, the control of the energy consumption component, or the like. In a case where a specific driving scheme is further required so as to save energy cost, an unrecognized portion of the driving scheme may be newly generated, and a recognized portion may be converted into another scheme so as to save energy.

It will be apparent that the process of generating the unrecognized portion may be omitted. In this case, the process of converting the recognized portion into another scheme. On the other hand, the process of converting the recognized portion into another scheme may be omitted. In this case, the process of newly generating the unrecognized portion may be performed.

The drive time may include a drive start time or drive end time. The course may include a drive period of the specific component and the power of the specific component.

The generated scheme or converted scheme may be a scheme recommended by the specific component so as to save energy cost. Here, the specific component may be an energy consumption component (control component) or the energy management component.

As an example, in a case where the recognized scheme is a specific drive time, the specific drive time may be converted into another time so as to save energy cost, and a specific course may be generated.

On the other hand, in a case where the recognized scheme is a specific course, the specific course may be converted into another course so as to save energy cost, and a specific time may be generated.

Under the control described above, a change in time or power may be made with respect to the output function of the specific component based on time.

The generated scheme or converted scheme may be performed within a set range. That is, in the process of recognizing at least a portion of the driving scheme, the generation or conversion of the driving scheme may be performed within a predetermined reference in which the recognized portion appears (e.g., restriction set by a user, constraint set under the control of the energy management component or energy consumption component, or the like).

Therefore, in a case where the set range is out of the predetermined reference, it is restricted to generate the unrecognized portion or to convert the recognized portion into another scheme.

Another embodiment is proposed.

Cost information may further included in the recognized driving scheme. That is, in a case where the cost information is recognized, a portion related to the drive time or course may be generated. The generated driving scheme may be recommended.

Meanwhile, a response of the specific component based on the information related to the fluctuation of the energy cost (high-cost or low-cost information), e.g., a power control for power saving driving, may be performed. An output decrease (including an output of zero) or output increase may be included in the output control.

It is as described above that the output is decreased or zero, maintained or increased based on the recognition for the information (on-peak or off-peak) related to energy cost.

If high-cost information is recognized, the output may be zero or decreased. Specifically, the output in the recognition of the high-cost information may be decreased as compared with that in the recognition of low-cost information. As described above, the decrease of the output may be previously determined before the specific component is operated, or may be changed when the high-cost information is recognized posterior to the start of the operation of the specific component.

In a case where the output of the specific component is zero or decreased, the function to be performed by the specific component may be lost as compared with a normal case. Therefore, a response for restoring the lost function may be performed.

As an example, after the output of the specific component is decreased, the specific component may be controlled so that the total operation time of the specific component is increased or so that the output is increased in at least a time period.

In other words, if specific reference information related to energy information is recognized in a period after the output of the specific component is controlled, the response for controlling the output may be released. Here, the term “period” may be divided based on a point of time when the high-cost information is recognized.

The total operation time may be understood as a time approaching a specific target in the process of performing the function of the specific component. As an example, in a case where the specific component is an electric appliance (washing machine, drying machine, cooking appliance or the like) intermittently driven (or driven in a specific course), the total operation time may be understood as a time until a corresponding course is completed.

On the other hand, in a case where the specific component is an electric appliance (refrigerator, water purifier, or the like) driven at normal times, the total operation time may be understood as a time approaching a target set for performing the function of the specific component. For example, the set target may be a target temperature, a target amount of ice produced, or a target amount of clean water in the refrigerator.

The total operation time may be increased as compared with the operation time set before the output of the specific component is decreased. In a case where the output of the specific component is not decreased, the total operation time may be increased as compared with the operation time of the specific component. However, although the total operation time of the specific component is increased, the specific component is controlled so that the total energy cost generated through the drive of the specific component can be saved as compared with that when the output of the specific component is not decreased.

If the high-cost information is recognized, the output of the specific component may be increased.

However, although the output is increased at a point of time when the high-cost information is recognized, the total output of the specific component during the entire driving period may be decreased or maintained as compared with that when the specific component is operated under a normal output. Alternatively, although the output is increased at a point of time when the high-cost information is recognized, the total power consumption or total time-based pricing of the specific component during the entire driving period may be decreased as compared with that when the specific component is operated under the normal output.

If the low-cost information is recognized, the output of the specific component may be increased. For example, in a case where the operation reservation of the specific component is set up, the driving of the specific component may be started before the setup time, or a component having a large output in a plurality of components may be first driven. In a case where the specific component is a refrigerator, supercooling may be performed by increasing an output as compared with the existing output. In a case where the specific component is a washing machine or a washer, hot water may be stored by driving a heater earlier than the time when the heater is to be operated. Alternatively, in a case where the specific component recognizes an off-peak signal (e.g., at a point of time of recognition), electricity may be stored.

Meanwhile, in a case of a specific condition (additional condition) is generated based on the information related to the fluctuation of the energy cost (high-cost or low-cost information), the response of the specific component, e.g., the output control for power saving driving, may be limited. That is, the output of the specific component may be maintained.

Here, the term “limitation” may be understood as the release of the output control performed or not performed.

The specific condition includes a case where influence on energy cost is minute even though the output control of the specific component is not performed or a case where it is necessary to prevent a function to be performed by the specific component from being degraded when the output of the specific component is controlled.

Whether or not the influence on the energy cost is minute may be determined based on a predetermined reference (time-based pricing, power consumption or information on operation time). The predetermined reference may be a relative or absolute value.

The case where the function to be performed by the specific component is degraded may be considered as a case where the specific component is a defrosting heater, for example.

In a case where it is controlled to decrease the output in a high-cost time period and to increase the output in the low-cost time period, the driving of the defrosting heater is more frequently performed than that during a normal time (setup period). In this case, the temperature of a storage room in the refrigerator is increased, and thus, the control of the output can be limited.

Meanwhile, the specific component 30 may include a display unit 31 for displaying information. In this embodiment, the term “information display” means that visual, auditory, olfactory and tactile information is known to the outside. The display unit 31 may include a touch screen for selecting or inputting information. Alternatively, the specific component 30 may include a separate input unit for inputting information by cable or radio.

All the information (energy information or additional information except the energy information) described above may be displayed in the display unit 31. One of the energy information and additional information may be displayed, or two or more pieces of information may be simultaneously displayed. That is, two or more pieces of information may be simultaneously displayed in the display unit 31. As an example, in a case where two or more pieces of information are simultaneously displayed, any one of the information is selected. Then, the selected screen may be enlarged, and the unselected screen may reduced. As another example, if any one of the two or more pieces of information is selected, the selected screen may be enlarged, and the unselected screen may disappear. In a case where specific information is selected and the selected screen is enlarged, information more specific that the previous information or information different from the previous information may be displayed on the enlarged screen. For example, in a case where the selected information is a character, graphic information may be displayed on the enlarged screen, or two or more pieces of information may be sequentially displayed on the enlarged screen. In a case where two or more pieces of information are displayed in the display unit 31, two or more relative positions may be varied.

Information except energy cost information and energy cost may be displayed in the display unit 31. The energy cost information may include current cost, past cost or estimated cost in the future. The energy cost information may include not only information on cost information in a specific period or time but also information on cost used with respect to the operation of a component, cost used in the present, cost to be used (estimation cost), or the like.

The information except the energy cost information may include information on energy reduction, emergency situation, grid safety, power generation quantity, operation priority, energy consumption, energy supply amount, information (e.g., cost change rate, average cost, level or the like) newly generated based on two or more pieces of information (one or more pieces of energy cost information and/or information except the one or more pieces of energy cost information), and the like. In this instance, the energy consumption may be energy consumption used two or more HANs, and may be simultaneously or selectively displayed.

The information on energy consumption may include information on past consumption, current consumption and estimated consumption in the future. The information on energy consumption may include information on accumulated consumption for a specific period (time), average consumption, increasing rate of consumption, decreasing rate of consumption, maximum consumption, minimum consumption, and the like.

The additional information may include one or more of environment information, time information, information related to the one or more components, information related to another component and information related to a user using the one or more components. The environment information may include one or more of information related to carbon dioxide emission rate, concentration of carbon dioxide in air, temperature, humidity, precipitation, presence of rainfall, amount of solar radiation, amount of wind.

In addition to the information described above, information refined based on at least one information or newly generated information may also be displayed in the display unit 31.

In a case where the specific component 30 is the energy storage component 13 or 23, the presence of use of the stored electricity, the remaining amount of the store electricity and the like may be displayed. If the remaining amount of the stored electricity is less than a predetermined value, alarm information may be displayed.

The information displayed in the display unit 31 may include one or more of information on number, character, sentence, figure, shape, symbol, image and light. The information displayed in the display unit 31 may include one or more of information on graph for each time or period, level, table. One or more of the shape, color, brightness, size, position, alarm period, alarm time of the information displayed in the display unit 31 may be varied.

A currently operable function (or menu) may be displayed in the display unit 31. Alternatively, among a plurality of functions, operable and inoperable function may be divided by size, color, position and the like, and then displayed in the display unit 31. Alternatively, in a case where separate input units are provided, only an input units for selecting an operable function may be activated, or an input unit for selecting an operable function and an input unit for selecting an inoperable function may be displayed in different colors.

The target or display method of information displayed in the display unit 31 may be set and changed by a user, or may be changed automatically.

In a case where a condition for informing the user of information is satisfied, specific information may be displayed in the display unit 31. It will be apparent that a portion of a plurality pieces of information may be continuously displayed in the state that a component is turned on. The display time of the information may be changed or set automatically or manually.

If specific information (one or more pieces of information) is selected using the input unit, the selected information may be displayed. If a user contacts a portion of a component, e.g., an input unit, a handle, a display or the like, regardless of information display selection, or operates one or more buttons or knobs that constitute the input unit, a portion of the information may be displayed. In this instance, the information to be displayed may be set or changed. It will be apparent that a sensing unit for sensing a user's contact may be provided to the component. Alternatively, the specific information may be displayed by installation environment or variation of outdoor environment. Alternatively, the specific information may be displayed when the specific component receives new information. Alternatively, the specific information may be displayed when the kind or state of the specific component is changed. As an example, if a light emitting unit is turned off in an off-peak section and an on-peak section comes, the light emitting unit may be turned on. Alternatively, the specific information may be automatically displayed when the operation or state of the component is changed. As an example, in a case where the mode of the component is changed, information related to the changed mode may be automatically displayed.

Meanwhile, the display unit 31 may be separably connected or fixed to the component 30. In a case where the display unit 31 is separable from the component 30, it may perform wired or wireless communication with the component 30 (or control unit of the component). In a case where the display unit 31 is fixed to the component 30, it may also perform wired or wireless communication with the component 30.

In a case where the display unit 31 is separable from the component 30, a communication unit and an input unit for inputting or selecting information may be provided to the display unit 31. Thus, information can be inputted or selected through the input unit in the state that the display unit 31 is separated from the component 30. The communication unit may be provided to the component 30, and only the display unit 31 may be separated from the component 30. The display unit 31 may be the energy management component 24, the energy metering component 25 or the central management component 27, or may be a separate control apparatus.

In a case where the display unit 31 is provided with a communication unit, a communication unit may also provided to the component 30. In a case where the display unit 31 and the component 30 are in the state that they are communicated with each other and information is transmitted/receive through a communication signal, the display unit 31 may be used. That is, in a case where the intensity of a signal is secured so that information can be included in the communication signal, the display unit 31 may be in an available state. On the other hand, in a case where the display unit 31 is not communicated with the component 30 or information is not included in the communication signal due to the weak intensity of the signal, the display unit may be in an unavailable state. One of the display unit 31 and the component 30 transmits a communication signal, and the other of the display unit 31 and the component 30 transmits a response signal. The presence of use of the display unit 31 may be determined by the presence of reception of the communication and response signals and the signal intensity. That is, in a case where any one of the display unit 31 and the component 30 does not receive a signal or the intensity of received signal is less than a reference intensity, it may be determined that the display unit 31 is unavailable. Any one of the display unit 31 and the component 30 may increase the intensity of a transmission signal until it receives a response signal of which intensity is more than the reference intensity.

Information for informing the user of the presence of use of the display unit 31 may be displayed in the display unit 31 or the component 30. If it is recognized that the display unit 31 is unavailable, the component 30 may be controlled to increase its unique performance, to perform a door locking function or to limit its operation. Alternatively, the power of the component may be off while maintaining the power of a communication apparatus (modem) required to perform communication in the network system. Alternatively, the power of the component may be off while maintaining only a memory function for storing the state information of the component.

Meanwhile, sensors may be provided to the respective display unit 31 and component 30 so as to sense the presence of mounting of the display unit 31. As an example, the presence of mounting of the display unit 31 may be determined when the component 30 is operated. Each of the sensors may be a vibration sensor for sensing vibration. If the display unit 31 is mounted on the component 30, vibration generated in the operation of the component 30 can be transferred to the display unit 31. Therefore, in a case where the difference between the values of vibrations respectively sensed by the sensors is less than a predetermined value, it may be recognized that the display unit 31 is mounted on the component 30. If it is recognized that the display unit 31 is mounted on the component 30, the operation of the component 30 may be controlled so that vibration or noise generated in the operation of the component 30 is decreased. As an example, in a case where the component 30 is a washing machine or drier, the rotation speed of a motor may be decreased. In a case where the component 30 is a refrigerator, the driving period of a compressor may be decreased. On the contrary, if it is recognized that the display unit 31 is separated from the component 30, the component may be controlled to increase its unique performance, to perform a door locking function or to limit its operation.

As another example, each of the sensor may be a temperature sensor. In a case where the difference between the values of temperatures respectively sensed by the sensors is less than a predetermined value, it may be recognized that the display unit 31 is mounted on the component 30.

In the state that the display unit 31 is separated from the component 30, an auxiliary display unit may be provided to the component 30 so as to enable the operation of the component 30. The presence of operation of the auxiliary display unit may be determined based on the presence of use of the display unit 31. As an example, if the display unit 31 is separated from the component 30 or is unavailable, the auxiliary display unit may be turned on.

FIG. 4 is a view showing the communication structure of two components that constitute the network system according to a first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the detailed configuration of a communication device that constitutes a communication unit.

Referring to FIGS. 2, 4 and 5, first and second component 61 and 62 that constitute the network system may perform wired or wireless communication by means of a communication unit 50. The first and second components 61 and 62 may perform unidirectional or bidirectional communication.

In a case where the two components 61 and 62 perform wired communication, the communication unit 50 may be a simple communication line or power line communication means. It will be apparent that the power line communication means may include communicators (e.g., a modem or the like) respectively connected to the two components.

In a case where the two components 61 and 62 perform wireless communication, the communication unit 50 may include a first communicator 51 connected to the first component 61 and a second communicator 52 connected to the second component 62. In this case, the first and second communicators 51 and 52 perform wireless communication with each other.

As an example, if any one of the first and second communicators is powered on, one of the two communicators may transmit a network participation request signal, and the other of the two communicators may transmit a permission signal. As another example, if any one of the first and second communicators is powered on, the powered-on communicator may transmit a network participation request signal to a communicator previously participated in the network, and the communicator that receives the request signal may transmit a permission signal to the powered-on communicator.

In a case where a communicator that recognizes energy information determines that an error occurs in the received information in the state that a specific component participates in the network, the information is re-requested. For example, in a case where the first communicator receives energy information from the second communicator but an error occurs in the received information, the first communicator may request the second communicator to re-transmit the energy information. If the first communicator does not receive normal information for a predetermined time or number of times, it is determined that the first communicator has an error. In this case, information for informing a user of the error may be displayed in the first communicator or the first component 61.

The first component 61 may be a component that constitutes the UAN 10 or a component that constitutes the HAN 20.

The second component 62 may be a component that constitutes the UAN 10 or a component that constitutes the HAN 20.

The first and second components 61 and 62 may be the same kind of component or different kinds of components.

Components may be joined in the UAN 10 or the HAN 20.

Specifically, addresses may be assigned to a plurality of components, e.g., first and second components, respectively. Here, the addresses are necessary for performing communication between the components and can be mapped to at least a group.

The address may be understood as values respectively converted from the unique code of the first or second component. That is, at least a portion of the components that constitute the network system may have an unchangeable/unique code, and the code may be converted into an address for building a network.

In other words, product codes for at least some of the plurality of components capable of constituting first and second networks may be converted into different network codes based on the constituted networks.

As an example, the product code may be a unique code determined in production of electric appliances or a code separately provided for the registration of a network. The product code may be converted into an identity (ID) for identifying a network to which the electric appliance is to be registered.

The first and second networks may be networks that constitute the UAN 10 or networks that constitute the HAN 20. On the other hand, the first and second networks may be the UAN 10 and the HAN 20, respectively. Alternatively, the first and second networks may be the HAN 20 and the UAN 10, respectively.

A first component and a second component for allowing the first component to participate in the network may be included in the plurality of components that constitute the network. For example, the first component may be an electric appliance and the second component may be a server.

Any one of the first and second components transmits a request signal for participating in the network, and the other of the first and second components may transmit a permission signal.

That is, a signal may be transmitted/received between the first and second components, and whether or not to participate in the network may be determined based on the transmission time or number of the signal.

As an example, the first component transmits a test signal to the second component, and it is determined whether or not a response signal from the second component is transmitted to the first component. In a case where the response signal is not transmitted, the first component re-transmits the test signal, and it is re-determined whether or not a response signal from the second component is transmitted to the first component. By repeating such a process, if the transmission number of the test signal exceeds the setting number of the test signal, it may be determined that the second component does not participate in the network.

Meanwhile, the first component may transmit the test signal to the second component. If a response signal from the second component is not transmitted within a setup time, it may be determined that the second component does not participate in the network.

The first and second communicators 51 and 52 may have the same structure. Hereinafter, the first and second communicators 51 and 52 will be referred to as a communicator 51 and 52.

The communicator 51 and 52 may include a first communication part 511 for communication with the first component 61, a second communication part 512 for communication with the second component 62, a memory 513 for storing information received from the first component 61 and information received from the second component 62, a processor 516 for performing information processing, and a power supply 517 for supplying power to the communicator 51 and 52.

Specifically, the communication language (or scheme) of the first communication part 511 may be identical to or different from that of the second communication part 512.

Two kinds of information respectively received from the two components may be stored in the memory 513. The two kinds of information may be stored in a single sector or may be respectively stored in sectors. In any case, an area in which the information received from the first component 61 may be referred to as a first memory 514, and an area in which the information received from the second component 62 may be referred to as a second memory 515.

The processor 516 may generate first information or generate second and third information based on information received from the component or another communicator.

As an example, in a case where the communicator 51 and receives the first information, it may generate information or sequentially generate the information and the second information by processing a data. Alternatively, in a case where the communicator 51 and 52 receives the first information, it may generate the second and third information by processing a data. In a case where the communicator 51 and 52 receives the third information, it may new third information.

For example, in a case where the second component is an energy consumption component (electric home appliance, component that constitutes the electric home appliance, or the like), the second communicator may generate a command for reducing energy consumption. In a case where the second component is an energy generation component, energy distribution component or energy storage component, the second communicator 52 may generate a command for energy generation time, generation amount, energy distribution time, distribution amount, energy storage time, storage amount or the like. In this case, the second communicator 52 serves as an energy management component.

The power supply 517 may receive electricity supplied from the components 61 and 62 or may receive electricity supplied from a separate power source. Alternatively, the power supply 517 may be a battery or the like.

FIG. 6 is a view showing a communication performing process between a specific component and a communication device according to the first embodiment.

Hereinafter, for convenience of illustration, a communication performing process between the second component 62 and the second communicator 52 will be described as an example. A communication performing process between the first component 61 and the first communicator 51 may be identically applied to that between the second component 62 and the second communicator 62.

Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the second communicator 52 receives a message from the first communicator 51. The second communicator 52 may receive a message in real time or by periods without transmitting a request for the message to the first communicator 51, or may receive a message as a response for the request for the message to the first communicator 51. Alternatively, the second communicator 52 may receive a message by requesting information to the first communicator 51 at a point of time when it is initially turned on. Then, the second communicator 52 may receive information in real time or by periods from the first communicator 51 without a request for information.

The information received from the first communicator 51 is stored in the memory 513. The second communicator 52 transmits a message to the second component 62 as a response for the message. In this instance, the message transmitted to the second component 62 relates to new information different from the information previously stored in the memory 513, or information generated in the processor 516.

Then, the second component 62 transmits an acknowledge character (ack) or negative acknowledge character (Nak) to the second communicator 52 as a response for the message. The second component 62 performs a function (generation of a command, operation, or the like) based on the received information, or waits for performing the function.

Meanwhile, the second communicator 52 requests component information to the second component 62 in real time or by periods. As an example, the component information may be component state information or information on a component unique code, a manufacturer, a service name code, an electricity use amount, and the like. Then, the second component 62 transmits component information to the second communicator 52 as a response for the request. The component information is stored in the memory 513 of the second communicator 52.

If the second communicator 52 receives a message for requesting the component information from the first communicator 51, it transmits the component information stored in the memory 513 to the first communicator 51 as a response for the message. Alternatively, the second communicator 52 transmits the component information stored in the memory 513 to the first communicator 51 in real time or by periods.

The second communicator 52 may transmit the information of the first component, stored in the memory, to the first component together with the information received from the first component. Alternatively, the second communicator 52 may transmit the information of the first component, stored in the memory, to the first component, separately from transmitting the information received from the first component.

The second communicator 52 stores the information of the second component 62 in the memory 513. Hence, in a case where the second communicator 52 receives a message for requesting the component information from the first communicator 51, it transmits the component information stored in the memory 513 directly to the first communicator 51 without a request for information to the second component 62, and thus, the communication load of the second component 62 can be reduced. That is, the second component becomes a virtual component.

FIG. 7 is a view showing a communication performing process between a specific component and a communication device according to a second embodiment.

Hereinafter, for convenience of illustration, a communication performing process between the second component 62 and the second communicator 52 will be described as an example. A communication performing process between the first component 61 and the first communicator 51 may be identically applied to that between the second component 62 and the second communicator 62.

Referring to FIGS. 5 and 7, the second communicator 52 receives a message from the first communicator 51. The second communicator 52 may receive a message in real time or by periods without transmitting a request for the message to the first communicator 51, or may receive a message as a response for the request for the message to the first communicator 51. Alternatively, the second communicator 52 may receive a message by requesting information to the first communicator 51 at a point of time when it is initially turned on. Then, the second communicator 52 may receive information in real time or by periods from the first communicator 51 without a request for information.

If the second communicator 52 receives a message for requesting information from the second component 62, it transmits a message to the second component 62 as a response for the message for requesting the information. In this instance, the message transmitted to the second component 62 relates to new information different from the information previously stored in the memory 513, or information generated in the processor 516. Alternatively, the information transmitted to the second component 62 may be information received from the first component.

The second component 62 performs a function based on the received information or waits for performing the function.

Meanwhile, the second component 62 transmits component information to the second component 62 in real time or by periods. As an example, the component information may be component state information or information on a component unique code, a manufacturer, a service name code, an electricity use amount, and the like.

As described above, the electric use amount may be detected by the smart meter. In a case where the electricity use amount is included in the information of the second component 62, the correction of an actual electricity use amount may be performed by comparing the information of the second component 62 with the information of the smart meter.

Then, the second communicator 52 stores the information of the second component 62 in the memory 513, and transmits an acknowledge character (ack) or negative acknowledge character (Nak) to the second component 62 as a response for the message.

If the second communicator 52 receives a message for requesting component information from the first communicator 51, it transmits the information of the second component 62, stored in the memory 513, to the first communicator 51 as a response for the message. Alternatively, the second communicator 52 the information of the second component 62, stored in the memory 513, to the first communicator 51 in real time or by periods.

The second communicator 52 stores the information of the second component 62 in the memory 513. Hence, in a case where the second communicator 52 receives the message for requesting the component information from the first communicator 51, it transmits the information stored in the memory 513 directly to the first communicator 51 without transmitting a request for information to the second component 62, and thus, the communication load of the second component 62 can be reduced. That is, the second communicator 52 becomes a virtual component.

<Applications>

In the following descriptions, the first and second components may be reversed to each other, and therefore, overlapping descriptions will be omitted. For example, in a case where the first component is an electric home appliance and the second component is an energy management component, description in a case where the first component is an energy management component and the second component is an electric home appliance will be omitted.

Information transmitted/received by each of the components may be all the information described above. Particularly, specific information may be transmitted/received for each of the components.

The energy generation components 11 and 21 may transmit/receive information related to energy generation amount, and the like. The energy distribution components 12 and 22 may transmit/receive information related to energy distribution amount, distribution time, and the like. The energy storage components 13 and 23 may transmit/receive information related to energy storage amount, storage time, and the like. The energy metering components 15 and 25 may transmit/receive information related to energy consumption amount, and the like. The energy management components 14 and 24 may transmit/receive information related to energy generation, distribution, storage, consumption, cost, reliability, emergency situation, and the like.

(1) Case where Second Component is One Component of HAN

The second component 62 may be an energy consumption component 26, e.g., a heater, motor, compressor, display or the like. In this case, the first component 61 may be a MICOM or energy consumption component 26 as an example. The MICOM or energy consumption component 26 may transmit a message for reducing energy consumption to another energy consumption component 26. Then, the another energy consumption component 26 may perform an operation for reducing energy, for example.

As another example, the energy consumption component 26 may be an electric home appliance. In this case, the first component 61 may be an energy storage component 23, an energy consumption component 26 (electric home appliance), an energy management component 24, an energy metering component 25, a central management component 27, a web server component 28, or a component that constitutes the UAN 10.

In this instance, an energy management function may be included or not included in the first component 61 except the energy management component 24.

In a case where an energy management function or solution is not included in the first component 61, it may be included in the communication unit or may be included in the MICOM of the second component 62. In this case, the energy management function is related to the consumption of energy.

As still another example, the second component 62 may be an energy generation component 21, an energy distribution component 22 or an energy storage component 23. In this case, the first component 61 may be an energy management component 24, a central management component 27, a web server component 28 or a component that constitutes the UAN 10.

A message may be transmitted to the second component 62. Here, the message may include energy generation time, generation amount or the like, energy distribution time, distribution amount or the like, and energy storage time, storage amount or the like.

In this instance, an energy management function may be included or not included in the first component 61 except the energy management component 24.

In a case where an energy management function or solution is not included in the first component 61, it may be included in the communication unit. In this case, the energy management function is related to the generation, distribution and storage of energy.

As still another example, the second component may be an energy metering component 25. In this case, the first component 61 may be a central management component 27, a web server component 28 or a component that constitutes the UAN 10.

An energy management function may be included or not included in the energy metering component. In a case where the energy management function is included in the energy metering component 25, the energy metering component 25 performs the same operation as the EMS.

In a case where an energy management function or solution is included in the energy metering component 25, it may be included in the communication unit or may be included in the second component 62.

As still another example, the second component 62 may be a central management component 27. In this case, the first component 61 may be a web server component 28 or a component that constitutes the UAN 10.

(2) Case where Second Component is One Component of UAN

The first component 61 may be a component that constitutes the UAN 10. In this case, the first and second components 61 and 62 may be the same kind of component or different kinds of components.

An energy management function may be included in the first component 61, the second component 62 or the communication unit.

The energy management function included in a specific component or the energy management function included in the energy management component 14 may be related to generation amount, distribution amount, storage amount, energy use amount of a component that constitutes the HAN 20.

In this specification, an example capable of constituting the network system has been described. However, any component not mentioned in this specification may be a first or second component that performs communication through the communication unit. For example, an automobile may be a second component, and the energy management component 24 may be a first component.

(3) Case where One of First and Second Components Communicates with Third Component

Although the communication between two components has been described in the aforementioned examples, each of the first and second components may perform communication with one or more components (a third component to an n-th component).

In this case, the relation of the first or second component that performs communication with the third component and the like may be one of the aforementioned examples.

For example, the first component may be a component that constitutes the UAN, the second component may be an energy management component 24 that communicates with the first component, and the third component may be an energy consumption component 26 that communicates with the second component. In this instance, one or more of the three components may communicate with another component.

In this specification, the first to n-th components may be components that constitute the UAN or components that constitute the HAN. Alternatively, a portion of the components may be components that constitute the UAN, or another portion of the components may be components that constitute the HAN.

Hereinafter, third and fourth embodiments will be described. A difference between these embodiments and the aforementioned embodiments will be mainly described, and descriptions and reference numerals will be quoted to elements of these embodiments identical to those of the aforementioned embodiments.

FIG. 8 is a view showing the communication structure of components that constitute the network system according to a third embodiment. FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing the detailed configuration of a first component in FIG. 8.

Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, a first component 70 may communicate with second to fifth components 82, 83, 84 and 85. Hereinafter, it will be described as an example that the first component 70 is a central management component (home server), the second and third components 82 and 83 are energy consumption components (electric home appliances), the fourth component 84 is an energy metering component (smart meter), and the fifth component 85 is a component that constitutes the UAN. The components may communicate with each other by means of a communication unit. In the network system illustrated in FIG. 8, each of the components is directly connected to the first component 70 to communicate with the first component 70. However, in a case where each of the components 82, 83, 84 and 85 is connected to new components to communicate with the new components, the network system may be extended and operated by the new components.

The second and third components 82 and 83 may be the same kind of component or different kinds of components. In this embodiment, it will be described as an example that the second and third components 82 and 83 are different kinds of energy consumption components.

The first component 70 may simply transmit information received from the fourth component 84 and/or the fifth component 85 to the second component 82 and/or the third component 83, or may process the received information and transmit the processed information.

The first component 70 may simply transmit information received from the second component 82 and/or the third component 83 to the fourth component 84 and/or the fifth component 85 (a signal may be converted), or may process the received information and transmit the processed information (the information is converted.

The first component 70 includes a communication unit 760 for performing communication with another component, a central manager 710 for managing the entire operation and/or information processing of the first component, and an application programming interface 720 (hereinafter, referred to as an

PI? for performing an interface between the communication unit 760 and the central manager 710 (specifically, application software).

The communication unit 760 includes a first communication part 762 for performing communication with the second and third components 82 and 83, a second communication part 764 for performing communication with the fourth component 84, and a third communication part 766 for performing communication with the fifth component 85.

In this instance, the first and second communication parts 762 and 764 may use different communication protocols from each other. As an example, the first communication part 762 may use Zigbee and the second communication part 764 may use Wi-fi. In this embodiment, the kind of communication protocol or method used by the first and second communication parts 762 and 764 is not limited. The third communication component 766 may use Internet communication as an example.

The API 720 includes a first API 722, a second API 724 and a third API 726. The third API 726 is an interface between the central manager 710 and the third communication part 766, and the first API 722 is an interface between the first communication part 762 and the central manager 710. The second API 724 is an interface between the second communication part 762 and the central manager 710.

The first component 70 further includes a local manager 740 and an interpreter 750. In a case where the information to be transmitted/received between the API 720 and the communication unit 760 is information related to operations of energy consumption components (electric home appliances), the local manager 740 outputs information corresponding to the respective energy consumption components. The interpreter 750 interprets information transmitted from the local manager 740 to the communication unit 760 or information received in the communication unit 760. The information outputted from the interpreter 750 is used to set or get values of information related to the respective energy consumption components.

The local manager 740 includes a memory (not shown) in which information related to one or more energy consumption components is stored. Alternatively, the local manager 740 may be connected to a memory in which information related to one or more energy consumption components is stored. The information related to each of the energy consumption components may include operation information of each of the energy consumption components and information for controlling the energy consumption components. The information related to each of the energy consumption components may further include software download information for operating each of the energy consumption components and information for remote controlling/monitoring.

As an example, in a case where a plurality of energy consumption components include a washing machine, a refrigerator and a cooking appliance, information related to each of the energy consumption components is stored in the memory. The information related to each of the energy consumption components may be changed as components connected to the network system are changed.

If a signal is transmitted from the API 720 to the local manager 740, information corresponding to a specific energy consumption component is outputted. In a case where a plurality of energy consumption components exist, information on the plurality of energy consumption components is outputted. The interpreter 750 interprets the information transmitted from the local manager 740 into a machine language so as to transmit the information to the energy consumption components. The machine language may be a signal used to set or get the operation information of the energy consumption components.

The information transmission process in the first component 70 will be described.

As an example, the first component 70 may receive energy information (e.g., an energy reduction signal: first command) from the forth component 45 through the second communication part 764. The received energy information is transmitted to the central manager 710 through the second API 724. In the process of information transmission between the second API 724 and the central manager 710, only a signal including the information is converted, and the content of the information is not converted.

Since the energy information is information related to the energy consumption reduction of the energy consumption components, the central manager 710 transmits information (second command) related to operations of the energy consumption components to the API 720. As an example, the central manager 710 transmits information necessary for turning off power of the washing machine or refrigerator.

Then, the information is transmitted from the first API 722 to the local manager 740.

The local manager 740 transmits information (third command) for controlling the operation of each of the energy consumption components to the interpreter 750 based on the information transmitted from the first API 722. As an example, in a case where the information transmitted from the first API 722 is information having different kinds of energy consumption components as targets, the local manager 740 transmits information related to the control of each of the energy consumption components to the interpreter 750. In this case, since the local manager 740 receives the second command and outputs the third command, the information inputted to the local manager 740 is converted and outputted by the local manager 740.

Subsequently, the interpreter 750 interprets the information transmitted from the local manager 740 into a machine language (signal). Then, the converted signal is transmitted to the target energy consumption components (second and third components) through the first communication part 762. Then, the energy consumption components (second and third components) are finally turned off so as to reduce energy.

Although it has been described above that the first component receives information through the second communication part, the first component may receive information through the third component so that the information related to the energy consumption components is outputted.

Meanwhile, the second and third components 82 and 83 may transmit their own operation information to the first component 70. Since the information transmitted from the second and third components 82 and 83 is information related to operations of the energy consumption components, the signal received in the first communication part 762 is transmitted to the central manager 710 via the interpreter 750, the local manager 760 and the first API 722. In such an information transmission process, the information related to the second and third components 82 and 83 is stored in the local manager 740. In this embodiment, since the information related to the energy consumption components is stored in the local manager, the local manager may be understood as a virtual energy consumption component (abstraction model).

The central manager 710 may transmit the received information to the second communication part 764 and/or the third communication part 766.

The operation of the first component will be described. The information received through the communication unit 760 may be transmitted directly to the API 720, or may be converted (via the interpreter and the local manager) and then transmitted to the API 720, based on the kind of information (or the type of signal).

The information transmitted from the central manager 740 may be transmitted directly to the communication unit 760, or may be converted and then transmitted to the communication unit 760.

As another example, the interpreter may be included in the local manager 740, and the information received through the communication unit 760 is transmitted to the local manager 740. However, converted information may be outputted, or information may be outputted as it is without converting the information.

Meanwhile, in a case where the information transmitted to the API 720 through the second or third communication part 764 or 766 is information (raw data or refined data) related to time-based pricing, the central manager 710 determines the presence of on-peak time. In the case of the on-peak time, the central manager 710 may transmit the information (first command) for controlling the operations of the energy consumption components to the API 720. Then, the information is converted through the local manager 740, and the converted information (second command) is transmitted to the energy consumption components through the first communication part 762. Alternatively, the central manager 710 may transmit the information related to the time-based pricing to the first communication part 762 through the second API 724 without determining the presence of on-peak time. In this case, the information may be converted or not converted. That is, in a case where the central manager directly receives first information (raw data), it may transmit the first information as it is, or convert the first information into a second information (refined data) and then transmit the second information.

FIG. 10 is a view showing the communication structure of components that constitute the network system according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing the detailed configuration of a first component in FIG. 10.

Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the network system of this embodiment may include at least first to fourth components 92, 94, 96 and 98.

The first component 92 may communicate with the second to fourth components 94, 96 and 98. The fourth component 98 may communicate with the first to third components 92, 94 and 96.

Hereinafter, it will be described as an example that the first component 92 is a central management component (home server), the second and third components 94 and 96 are energy consumption components (electric home appliances), and the fourth component 98 is an energy metering component (smart meter).

The central management component (home server) may be understood as a component necessary for controlling at least a component that constitutes the HAN 20.

The first component 92 includes a communication unit 970 for performing communication with another component, a central manager 920 for managing the entire operation and/or information transmission/reception of the first component 92, and an application programming interface 930 (hereinafter, referred to as an “API”) that serves as an interface between the communication unit 970 and the central manager 920 (specifically, application software).

The communication unit 970 may include a first communication component 972 for performing communication with the second to fourth components 94, 96 and 98, and a second communication component 974 for performing Internet communication.

The API 930 includes a first API 932 and a second API 934. The second API 934 is an interface between the central manager 920 and the second communication part 974, and the first API 930 is an interface between the first communication part 972 and the central manager 920.

The first component 92 further includes a local manager 950 and an interpreter 960. In a case where the information to be transmitted/received between the API 932 and the communication unit 970 is information related to operations of energy consumption components (electric home appliances), the local manager 950 outputs information corresponding to the respective energy consumption components. The interpreter 960 interprets information transmitted from the local manager 950 to the communication unit 970 or information received in the communication unit 970.

In this embodiment, the functions of the interpreter and the local manager are identical to those of the third embodiment, and therefore, their detailed descriptions will be omitted.

The information transmission process in the first component 92 will be described.

As an example, the first component 92 may receive energy information (e.g., energy reduction signal) from the fourth component 98 through the first communication part 972. Alternatively, the first component 92 may receive energy information from an external component connected to Internet through the second communication part 974.

The received energy information is transmitted directly to the first or second API 932 or 934 and then transmitted to the central manager 920. Since the energy information is information related to the energy consumption reduction of the energy consumption components, the central manager 920 transmits information related to the operations of the energy consumption components to the first API 932. As an example, the central manager 920 transmits information necessary for turning off power of a washing machine or refrigerator.

Then, the information is transmitted from the first API 932 to the local manager 950.

The local manager 950 transmits information for controlling the operation of each of the energy consumption components to the interpreter 960 based on the information transmitted from the first API 932. As an example, in a case where the information transmitted from the first API is information related to different kinds of energy consumption components, the local manager 950 transmits information related to the control of each of the energy consumption components to the interpreter 960.

Subsequently, the interpreter 960 interprets the information transmitted from the local manager 960 into a machine language (signal). Then, the interpreted signal is transmitted to the energy consumption components through the first communication part 972. Then, the energy consumption components are finally turned off so as to reduce energy.

Meanwhile, the second and third components 94 and 96 may transmit their own operation information to the first component 92. Since the information transmitted from the second and third components is information related to the operations of the energy consumption components, the signal received in the first communication part 972 is transmitted to the central manager 920 via the interpreter 960, the local manager 950 and the first API 932. In such an information transmission process, the information related to the first and second components is stored in the local manager 950.

The central manager 920 may transmit the received information to the first communication part 972. Then, the information of the second and third components 94 and 96 is transmitted to the fourth component 98.

The operation of the first component will be described. The information received through the communication unit 970 may be transmitted directly to the API 930, or may be converted (via the interpreter and the local manager) and then transmitted to the API 930, based on the kind of information (or the type of signal).

On the contrary, the information transmitted from the central manager 920 may be transmitted directly to the communication unit 970, or may be converted and then transmitted to the communication unit 970.

Meanwhile, in a case where the information transmitted to the API 930 through the second communication part 974 is information related to time-based pricing, the central manager 920 determines the presence of on-peak time. In the case of the on-peak time, the central manager 920 may transmit the information for controlling the operations of the energy consumption components to the API 930. Then, the information is transmitted to the energy consumption components through the local manager, the interpreter and the first communication part. In this case, the first component may be understood as an energy management component.

Although it has been described above that two energy consumption components communicate with the first component, the number of energy consumption components that communicate with the first component is not limited.

Although it has been described as an example that the first component is a home server, the first component may be an energy management component. In this case, the fourth component may be a central management component, an energy management component, a smart meter, or the like.

As another example, the first component may be a smart meter. In this case, the fourth component may be a central management component, an energy management component, or the like.

As still another example, the first component may be a terminal component (e.g., a gate way).

As still another example, each of the second and third components may be an energy generation component, an energy storage component or the like, which constitutes the HAN. That is, one or more of the energy generation component, the energy consumption component and the energy storage component may communicate with the first component. In addition to information related to the energy consumption component, information related to the energy generation component (e.g., information related to the operation of the energy generation component) and information related to the energy storage component (e.g., information related to the operation of the energy storage component) may be stored in the memory included in a local network or connected to the local network.

Although it has been described above that the first component performs Internet communication, the Internet communication may not be performed.

Although it has been described in the first embodiment that a single local manager is provided, a plurality of local managers may be provided. As an example, a first local manager may process information on an electric home appliance such as a refrigerator or washing machine, and a second local manager may process information on a display product such as a television or monitor.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing an example an example of a component that constitutes the network system of the present disclosure. The following component 100 may be one component of the UAN or HAN.

Referring to FIG. 12, the component 101 may include a control unit 102, an input unit 103 for inputting an operational command, and a display unit 104 for displaying information. In this instance, the input unit 103 may be provided in the form of a touch screen to the display unit 104. The control unit 102 may communicate with a communicator 105.

The component 100 may further include a sensor, a driver, a memory and the like according to the kind of the component 100. The input unit or display unit may not be provided to the component 100 according to the kind of the component 100. The component 100 may be a function performing component, or may include the function performing component.

Hereinafter, various examples of the operating method of the component 100 will be described.

As still another example, the specific function start condition of the component or one or more energy consumption components (function performing components) that constitute the component may be changed according to the kind of information related to energy. That is, if the high-cost information is recognized, the operation start condition may be eased or reinforced. The operation start condition is changed so that the energy consumption or energy usage cost of the component or function performing component is reduced before the specific function of the component or function performing component is started. Alternatively, the operation start condition is changed so that in a case where the high-cost information is recognized, the energy consumption or energy usage cost is reduced in the recognized section of the high-cost information according to the operation of the component or function performing component.

For example, if the high-cost information is recognized in a defrosting heater of a refrigerator, the operation start condition (defrosting function start condition) of the defrosting heater may be reinforced. In the case of a washing machine, the presence of valance of the laundry in a drum is determined. In a case where the laundry in the drum is balanced, a motor for rotating the drum is operated for the purpose of a dehydration course. In a case where the laundry in the drum is not balanced, the motor is operated so that the laundry in the drum is balanced. If the high-cost information is recognized, the balance determination condition (dehydration function start condition) is eased so that the dehydration course can be rapidly performed.

As still another example, a specific function of the component or one or more energy consumption components (function performing components) may be started when the number of trials for starting the function or the energy usage cost or energy consumption in a trial for starting the function approaches a reference value.

As still another example, if the high-cost or low-cost information is recognized in the operation of the component 100, the power consumption (or power) of the component 100 may be changed in a portion or entire of the section in which the high-cost or low-cost information is recognized. In this instance, the power consumption (or power) of the component 100 in the recognition of the low-cost information is smaller than that of the component 100 in the recognition of the high-cost information. For example, the power consumption (or power) of the component 100 may be decreased or increased in the portion or entire of the section. Alternatively, the power consumption (or power) of the component 100 may be gradually decreased or repeatedly decreased and decreased in the portion or entire of the section.

FIG. 13 is a schematic view illustrating a home network according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 13, a home network 20 according to an embodiment includes an energy measurement unit 25 (e.g., a smart meter) capable of measuring the cost of power and/or electricity, being supplied to each home, in real-time from the utility network 10, and an energy management unit 24 connected to the energy measurement unit 25 and an electric product and controlling the operation thereof.

The energy management unit 24 is connected to electric products, the energy consumption units 26, such as a refrigerator 100 a, a washing machine 100 b, an air conditioner 100 c, a drying machine 100 d, and a cooking appliance 100 e through an in-house network for two-way communication. In-house communication may be performed by wireless communication such as Zigbee, WiFi or the like or by wire communication such as power line communication (PLC). Furthermore, the electric products may be connected to each other so as to communicate with each other.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an electric product according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 14, an electric product 100 provided as “the energy consumption component” according to an embodiment includes a communication unit 210. The electric product 100 may include the refrigerator 100 a, a washing machine 100 b, an air conditioner 100 c, a dryer 100 d, or a cooking appliance.

The communication unit 210 may communicate with at least one of the energy measurement component 25 for recognizing energy information or additional information except the energy information and the energy management component 24 for managing (controlling) an operation of the electric product 100 according to the energy information or the additional information. The energy measurement component 25 and the energy management component 24 may be connected to communicate with each other. Also, the communication unit 210 may be provided within the electric product 100 or separably coupled to the electric product 100.

The electric product 100 may include an input unit 220 for inputting a predetermined command, a display unit 230 for displaying operation information of the electric product 100 or information recognized from the communication unit 210, a memory 250 for storing the received information, i.e., the energy information (for example, energy charge information) or the additional information (for example, environment information), and a control unit 200 for controlling the input unit 220, the display unit 230, and the memory 250.

The electric product 100 includes a detection unit 270 for recognizing information related to the operation of the electric product 100. The detection unit 270 may include a hall sensor for detecting a rotation cycle of a driving unit of the electric product, a weight sensor for detecting a weight of a consumable, a temperature sensor for detecting a temperature of a specific component, a timer for calculating a time elapsed from a reference time, or a position sensor for detecting a position of a specific object.

The consumable may be understood as an object to be treated or managed using the electric product 100. For example, the consumable may include clothes that are objects to be treated by the washing machine or the dryer, foods to be treated by the cooking appliance, or foods to be managed by the refrigerator.

The electric product 100 includes an operation unit 300 for determining the operation of the electric product 100 on the basis of the result recognized by the detection unit 270. The operation unit 300 may include a driving unit (e.g., a compressor or a pump) for generating a driving force or a heating member for generating predetermined heat.

The electric product 100 may be operated while the electric product 100 performs at least one course. Here, the term “course” may be understood as an operation manner which is operated using a previously determined method to perform a proper function of the component constituting the electric product 100 or electric product 100. Also, the course may include a plurality of sub-courses.

The electric product 100 is operated according to a set course to perform the function. Also, the electric product 100 recognizes (determines) an entering condition for entering the set course on the basis of the energy information.

The energy information may include information (max/min energy charge information) based on whether the energy charge is high or low. The max/min energy charge information includes high-price information or low-price information. The high-price information and the low-price information may be divided on the basis of a preset reference value (a reference information value). The reference value may be provided in plurality.

In a case where the energy charge information is the high-price information, for example, exceeds the reference value, when the entering condition is satisfied, the electric product 100 performs the set course. In detail, when a prior order of the plurality of sub-courses is finished, the electric product 100 determines the entering condition for entering a next course. When the entering condition is satisfied, the electric product 100 may enter the next order.

The entering condition may include a plurality of entering conditions different from each other. The plurality of entering conditions may include a first condition determined on the basis of the result detected by the detection unit 270 and a second condition except the first condition. That is, the first condition and the second condition may be understood as different conditions. Also, each of the first and second conditions may include at least one sub-condition. That is, the sub-conditions may be combined with each other to constitute the first and second conditions.

Whether the electric product 100 enters the next order course may be determined by one condition of the first and second conditions. Also, when the one condition is unsatisfied, whether the electric product 100 enters the next order course may be determined by the other condition.

In detail, whether the first condition is satisfied may be determined first. When the first condition is unsatisfied, whether the electric product 100 enters the next order course may be determined by the second condition. For example, the second condition may include a condition related to the energy charge. In detail, the energy charge-related condition may include energy consumption information of the electric product 100, i.e., whether power consumption or usage energy charge of the electric product 100 is greater than a reference value.

When the energy consumption information is greater than the reference value, even though the first condition is unsatisfied, the electric product 100 may enter the next order course. Particularly, when the energy consumption information is greater than the reference value in the determining of whether the electric product 100 enters the next order course, the electric product 100 may enter the next order course regardless of whether the first condition is satisfied.

Also, the energy charge-related condition may include whether the high-price period exists after an estimated operation end time point of the electric product 100. When the high-price period exists after the operation ending of the electric product 100, even though the first condition is unsatisfied, the electric produce 100 may enter the next order course. As described above, when the second condition related to the energy charge is recognized to determine that the electric product 100 is operated for the high-price period, the set course may be quickly performed to reduce the energy charge.

For another example, the second condition may include a condition related to a repeated number or performance time in a specific course. In detail, the electric product 100 may be operated according to a plurality of courses for performing a function thereof. The plurality of courses may include the first course (the prior order course) and the second course (the next order course) performed after the first course is finished.

The electric product 100 recognizes whether the repeated number of the first course or the performance time of the first course under the second condition is greater than a preset value to determine whether the electric product 100 can enter the second course after the first course is finished. The repeated number of the first course or the performance of the first course is greater than the preset value, the first course is not performed ever, and the electric product may enter the second course.

Even though the result detected by the detection unit 270 does not satisfy the first condition, when the second condition related to the performance information of the first course is satisfied, the electric product 100 may perform the set course. As a result, the course of the electric product may be quickly performed to reduce electricity charges.

For another example, the second condition may include a condition related to the repeated number of the first condition. In detail, to enter the next order course, whether first condition is satisfied may be detected at least one time. Also, when the unsatisfied number of first conditions reaches a preset reference value, it may be determined that the second condition is satisfied, and thus, the electric product 100 may enter the next order course.

The washing machine 100 b will be described with respect to the above-described contents an example of the electric product 100.

The washing machine 100 b performs a plurality of courses (the sub-courses) as a set course. The plurality of courses include washing, dehydrating, and drying processes (courses). After the washing machine 100 b completely performs the washing course, the washing machine 100 b detects information related to a balance of a washing clothe within a washing bath using the detection unit 270 before the washing machine 100 b enters the dehydrating course.

A condition in which the balance of the washing cloth within the washing bath is detected may be a first condition for performing the dehydrating course. Here, the term “the balance of the washing cloth” means that the washing cloth is uniformly disposed on a wall of the washing bath, i.e., a disentangled state of the washing cloth. Also, the term “an unbalance of the washing cloth” means that the washing cloth is eccentrically disposed on the wall of the washing bath.

The detection unit 270 may include a hall sensor for detecting a rotation cycle of a driving unit of the washing machine 100 b or a weight sensor for detecting a weight of the washing cloth. The washing machine 100 b operates the driving unit at the preset number of rotation before the washing machine 100 b enters the dehydrating course.

While the driving unit is operated, the detection unit 270 detects whether the washing cloth is balanced. If a result detected by the detection unit 270 is less than the set value, it may be recognized that the washing cloth is balanced. The driving unit may be controlled so that the driving unit is continuously rotated until the balance of the washing cloth is detected.

However, for example, in a state where the high-price information related to the energy charge is received, the continuous driving of the driving unit to detect the balance of the washing cloth may have a limitation in which an energy usage amount or a usage energy charge is excessive. Thus, when one of the first and second conditions is satisfied by determining the additional second condition except the first condition related to the detection of the balance of the washing cloth, the washing machine 100 b may be controlled to perform the dehydrating course.

As described above, the second condition may be a condition related to the energy charge. When the energy consumption or energy charge increased by the continuous operation of the driving unit exceeds a reference value, the washing machine 100 b may enter the dehydrating course even though the balancing condition of the washing cloth is unsatisfied. However, whether the energy consumption or energy charge exceeds the reference value (i.e., on-peak information) may be merely an example for determining whether the energy consumption or energy charge exists in the high-price information period. Thus, when the above-described curtailment information and the supplied electricity shortage information are received, it may also be recognized that the energy consumption or energy charge exists in the high-price information period.

Also, in a case where the high-price information period exists after the estimated operation end time point of the washing machine 100 b although the high-price information is not received now, the washing machine 100 b may enter the dehydrating course even though the balancing condition of the washing cloth is unsatisfied.

Here, the second condition may be information related to the performance of a specific course. In detail, to balance the washing cloth, a course in which the driving unit is operated at the preset number of rotation may correspond to the first course, and the dehydrating course may correspond to the second course. When the repeated number (a rotation cycle of the driving unit) of the first course is greater than the preset number, or the performance time of the first course is greater than the preset time even though the balancing condition of the washing cloth is unsatisfied, the washing machine 100 b may enter the second course.

Here, the second condition may be information related to the repeated number or time of the first condition. In detail, when the unsatisfied number (or time) of first condition in which the balancing of the washing cloth is detected, i.e., the attempted number (time) of the disengagedness of the washing cloth is greater than the set number (or the set time), the washing machine 100 b may enter the dehydrating course. Here, the attempted number or time of the disengagedness of the washing cloth may be understood as the failed number (or time) of entering of the dehydrating course.

Another embodiment will now be described.

In the foregoing embodiment, the condition for allowing the electric product 100 to enter the next order course was determined according to whether the second condition is satisfied after the first condition is satisfied. However, on the other hand, the electric product 100 may select one of the plurality of entering conditions different from each other on the basis of the information related to the energy charge. That is, the first or second condition may be selected as the entering condition regardless of order of priority of the entering condition.

For example, when a stage period for determining whether the electric product 100 enters the next order course corresponds to the low-price period, it may be determined whether the electric product 100 enters the first condition. On the other hand, when the stage period corresponds to the high-price period, it may be determined whether the electric product 100 enters the next order course by the second condition, but the first condition. That is, in the low-price period, whether the electric product 100 enters the next order course may be determined by the first condition that is an entering condition of the electric product itself. Also, in the high-price period, whether the electric product 100 enters the next order course may be determined by the second condition for reducing the energy charge.

For another example, when an accumulated energy charge is less than the reference value in the stage period, it may be determined whether the electric produce 100 enters the first condition. On the other hand, when the accumulated energy charge exceeds the reference value in the stage period, it may be determined whether the electric product 100 enters the next order course by the second condition to reduce the energy charge.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling an electric product according to an embodiment.

An electric product that is an energy consumption compartment is operated in a first course. For example, if the electric product 100 is a washing machine 100 b, the first course may be a method in which a driving unit is operated at a preset rotation number to balance a washing cloth before the washing machine 100 b enters a dehydrating course after a washing course is finished (S11).

When high-price information related to an energy charge is recognized (S12), an entering condition for operating a second course of the electric product 100 is determined. The second course may be an operation method which is performed after the first course is finished. When the entering condition is satisfied, the second course may start. In the current embodiment, the second course may be understood as the dehydrating course (S13).

The entering condition may include a plurality of conditions different from each other. The plurality of conditions may include a first entering condition related to the result detected by the detection unit 270 and a second entering condition except the first entering condition. The second entering condition may include at least one of a condition related to the energy charge, a condition related to the course information, and a condition related to an unsatisfied number (or time) of the first condition.

It is determined whether the first entering condition for operating the second course is satisfied (S14). For example, whether the first entering condition is satisfied may be determined according to whether the result detected by the detection unit 270 is less than the set value. When the detected result is less than the set value, the balanced state of the washing cloth may be recognized, and thus the electric product 100 may perform the second course (S15).

On the other hand, when the first entering condition for operating the second course is unsatisfied, whether the second entering condition is satisfied is determined. Here, the first entering condition may be detected at least one time or more. When the unsatisfied number or time of first entering condition is greater than the reference value, it may be understood that the first entering condition is unsatisfied.

For example, whether the second entering condition is satisfied may be determined according to energy consumption information of the electric product 100, i.e., whether an energy charge or energy consumption is greater than the reference value and information related to the performance of the first course, i.e., whether the repeated number or performed time of the first course is greater than a preset value or the unsatisfied number (or time) of the first entering condition is greater than a set number (or the set time).

When the second entering condition for operating the second course is satisfied, the electric product 100 performs the second course. Of cause, whether first entering condition is satisfied may be continuously detected also in a stage period in which whether the second entering condition is satisfied is determined. Here, when the first entering condition is satisfied, the second course may be performed (S16).

As described above, while the electric product 100 is operated according to the set course, the entering condition for performing the set course may be provided in plurality. Here, when one condition of the plurality of conditions is satisfied, the electric product 100 may enter the set course. Thus, the electric product 100 may quickly perform and finish the set course. Also, while whether the electric product 100 enters a next order course is determined, when high-price information is received, the electric product 100 may enter the next order course to quickly perform the next order course. Thus, the energy charge may be reduced.

Although whether the second condition is satisfied is determined in the case where the first entering condition is unsatisfied in FIG. 15, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the first or second entering condition may be selectively determined according to a predetermined condition. The predetermined condition may include whether the stage period in which whether the electric product 100 enters the next order course is determined exists in a high-price period or whether an accumulated energy charge in the stage period is greater than a reference value.

For example, when the stage period exists in the high-price period, the stage period may be determined as the second entering condition. Also, when the stage period exists in the low-price period, the stage period may be determined as the first entering condition. When the accumulated energy charge in the stage period exceeds the reference value, the stage period may be determined as the second entering condition. Also, the accumulated energy charge in the stage period is less than the reference value, the stage period may be determined as the first entering condition. Through the above-described control method, the electric product 100 may quickly perform the course and also reduce the energy charge.

Another embodiment will now be described.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a washing machine capable of being applied to the network system according to an embodiment. FIG. 17 is a block diagram of the washing machine capable of being applied to the network system according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, a washing machine 300 is a home appliance for washing/dehydrating/drying a washing cloth. The washing machine 300 includes a control unit 310, a motor 320, a sensor 330, and a data receiving unit 340. The control unit 310 controls an operation of the washing machine 300. Also, the motor 320 provides a driving force for rotating a washing bath 321 in which the washing cloth is received. Thus, the motor 320 may be called an energy consumption component. The sensor 330 detects information related to a balance of the washing cloth within the washing bath 321. The data receiving part 340 receives information related to energy.

In more detail, the control unit 310 controls an operation or the motor 320 or water supply to perform the washing/dehydrating/drying courses. The control unit 310 determines whether the washing cloth within the washing bath 321 is balanced according to data detected by the sensor 330 in the dehydrating course to control the operation of the motor 320. That is to say, the control unit 310 controls the operation of the motor 320 so that the dehydrating course starts only when the washing cloth within the washing bath 321 is balanced. Here, the term “the balance of the washing cloth” means that the washing cloth is uniformly disposed on a wall of the washing bath 321. Also, the term “an unbalance of the washing cloth” means that the washing cloth is eccentrically disposed on the wall of the washing bath 321.

For example, the control unit 310 controls the motor 320 so that the motor 320 is rotated at a first set RPM. Also, the control unit 310 determines whether the washing cloth within the washing bath 321 is balanced according to a value detected by the sensor 330 while the motor 320 is rotated at the first set RPM. When it is determined that the washing cloth within the washing bath 321 is balanced, the control unit 310 controls the motor 320 so that the motor 320 is rotated at a preset dehydration RPM. Thus, the dehydrating course for dehydrating the washing cloth within the washing bath 321 starts. When it is determined that the washing cloth within the washing bath 321 is unbalanced, the control unit 310 controls the motor 320 so that the motor 320 is rotated at a second set RPM. Also, after the motor 320 is rotated at the second set RPM for a preset time, the control unit 310 determines whether the washing cloth within the washing bath 321 is balanced according to the value detected by the sensor 330. Also, the control unit 310 controls the motor 320 so that the motor 320 is rotated at the dehydration RPM for the dehydrating course or the second set RPM for balancing the washing cloth within the washing bath 321 according to whether the washing cloth within the washing bath 321 is balanced.

Here, the first set RPM may be the number of rotation of the motor 320 for detecting whether the washing cloth within the washing bath 321 is balanced. Also, the second set RPM may be the number of rotation of the motor 320 for rotating the washing bath 321 so that the washing cloth within the washing bath 321 is balanced when it is determined that the washing cloth within the washing bath 321 is unbalanced. Also, the dehydration RPM may be the number of rotation of the motor 320 for dehydrating the washing cloth within the washing bath 321. Thus, the second set RPM may be set to a value less than the first set RPM. Also, the dehydration RPM may be set to a value greater than the first set RPM.

A washing cloth balancing condition for the starting of the dehydrating course may include a plurality of conditions. The plurality of conditions may include the same kind of conditions. For example, the plurality of conditions may include a reference value which is a standard of the washing cloth balance for the starting of the dehydrating course, i.e., a set value compared with the value detected by the sensor 330. That is, the set value may be provided in plurality.

That is, when a first condition for the plurality of conditions for the starting of the dehydrating course is unsatisfied, whether the second condition which is the same kind of first condition is satisfied may be determined. The second condition may be a moderated condition than the first condition. Here, the first condition may be a first set value for recognizing the washing cloth balance, and the second condition may be a second set value less than the first set value.

The control unit 310 determines whether the energy charge exist in an on-peak time (high-price information period) or an off-peak time (low-price information period) according to information related to the energy charge received into the data receiving unit 340. A time point at which the information related to the energy charge is determined may be a time point at which whether the washing machine 300 enters the dehydrating course is determined. When the time point at which whether the washing machine 300 enters the dehydrating course is determined exists in the low-price information period, whether the washing machine 300 enters the dehydrating course may be determined by the first condition. Also, when the time point at which whether the washing machine 300 enters the dehydrating course is determined exist in the high-price information period, whether the washing machine 300 enters the dehydrating course may be determined by the second condition.

The control unit 310 controls the operation of the motor 320 so that the washing close within the washing bath 321 is relatively easily dehydrated in the on-peak time when compared to that in the off-peak time. That is to say, the control unit 310 moderates the condition for the starting of the dehydrating cycle in the on-peak time than the off-peak time. For this, the control unit 310 may differently set the reference value compared with the value detected by the sensor 130 to determine whether the washing cloth within the washing bath 321 is balanced according to the presence of the on-peak time or the off-peak time.

For example, a hall sensor for detecting a rotation cycle of the motor 320 may be used as the sensor 330. The rotation cycle of the motor 320 may be increased in a case where the washing cloth within the washing bath 321 is balanced than a case where the washing cloth within the washing bath 321 is unbalanced. In the case of the off-peak time, the control unit 310 determines that the washing cloth within the washing bath 321 is unbalanced when the value detected by the sensor 330, i.e., the rotation cycle of the motor 320 is greater than the first set value. However, in the case of the on-peak time, the control unit 310 determines that the washing cloth within the washing bath 321 is unbalanced only when the rotation cycle of the motor 320 detected by the sensor 330 is greater than the second set value exceeding the first set value.

In summary, a first entering condition for detecting the balance of the washing cloth in the low-price information period and a second entering condition for detecting the balance of the washing cloth in the high-price information period may be the same entering condition. Also, the second entering condition may be understood as a moderated condition than the first entering condition.

For another example, at least two weight sensors may be used as the sensor 330. Also, the control unit 310 may compare a difference between values detected by the sensors 330 with a preset reference value. Also, in the off-peak time, the control unit 310 may determine that the washing cloth within the washing bath 321 is unbalanced only when the difference between the values detected by the sensors 330 exceeds the first set value. Also, in the on-peak time, the control unit 310 may determine that the washing cloth within the washing bath 321 is unbalanced only when the difference between the values detected by the sensors 330 exceeds the second set value. Here, when the second set value is set to a value exceeding the first set value, the condition for entering the dehydrating course may be moderated in the on-peak time when compared to that in the off-peak time.

Hereinafter, a method of controlling the washing machine capable of being applied into the network system according to an embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling the washing machine capable of being applied into the network system according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 18, a control unit 310 controls a motor 320 so that the motor 320 is rotated at a first set RPM (S21). The control unit 310 determines whether an energy charge exists in an off-peak time according to information received into a data receiving unit 340 (S22).

When the control unit 310 determines that the energy charge exists in the off-peak time in the operation S13, the control unit 310 determines whether a value detected by the sensor 300 is less than a first set value, i.e., whether a washing cloth within a washing bath 321 is balanced (S23). Here, the value detected by the sensor 330 may be, for example, a rotation cycle of the motor 320 or a difference of weights detected at least two positions by a self-weight of the washing cloth within the washing bath 321.

In the operation S23, when the value detected by the sensor 330 is less than the first set value, it may be determined that the washing cloth within the washing bath 321 is balanced. Thus, the control unit 310 controls the motor 320 so that the motor 320 is rotated at a dehydration RPM.

Next, the control unit 310 determines whether the dehydrating course is finished (S25). When it is determined that the dehydrating course is finished in the operation S25, the control unit 310 controls the motor 320 so that an operation of the motor 320 is stopped (S26).

When the value detected by the sensor 330 exceeds the first set value in the operation S23, it may be determined that the washing cloth within the washing bath 321 is unbalanced. Thus, the control unit 310 controls the motor 320 so that the motor 320 is rotated at a second set RPM to balance the washing cloth within the washing bath 321 (S27). When the motor 320 is rotated at the second set RPM by a preset time or number, the control unit 310 compares again the value detected by the sensor 330 with the first set value in the operation S23 to determine whether the washing clothe within the washing bath 321 is balanced.

Also, when it is determined that the energy change exists in the on-peak time, but the off-peak time in operation S22, the control unit 310 compares the value detected by the sensor 330 with the second set value (S28). Also, when it is determined that the value detected by the sensor 330 is less than the second set value in the operation S28, the control unit 310 performs the dehydrating cycle, i.e., the operations S24 to S26. However, when it is determined that the value detected by the sensor 330 exceeds the second set value, the control unit 310 controls the motor 320 so that the motor 320 is rotated at the second set RPM (S29).

As described above, the washing machine 300 may minimize the operation of the motor 320 for balancing the washing cloth within the washing bath 321 in the on-peak time. Thus, in the washing machine 300, energy in the op-peak period, i.e., power consumption may be minimized.

Another embodiment will now be described.

In the forgoing embodiment, the same kind of entering conditions different from each other was determined on the basis of the high-price information period or the low-price information period. However, on the other hand, when total charge generated during the operation period of the washing machine 300 is less than a reference charge, it may be determined as a first entering condition. Also, when the total charge is greater than the reference charge, it may be determined as a second entering condition moderated than the first entering condition. Thus, a set course may be quickly performed to reduce an energy charge.

The entering condition may be determined according to whether a high-price period exists within a set time after an estimated operation end time of the washing machine 300. For example, when the high-price period exists within about 30 minutes after the operation of the washing machine 300 is finished, whether the washing machine 300 enters a course may be determined by the second entering condition moderated than the first entering condition to quickly perform the set course. Thus, the operation of the washing machine 300 may be controlled so that the operation end time of the washing machine 300 does not exist in the high-price period, thereby reducing the energy charge.

Hereinafter, a refrigerator capable of being applied into the network system according to an embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a refrigerator capable of being applied to the network system according to an embodiment. FIG. 20 is a block diagram of the refrigerator capable of being applied to the network system according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, a refrigerator 400 is a home appliance for storing goods such as foods in a frozen/refrigerated state. The refrigerator 400 includes a control unit 410 for controlling an operation of the refrigerator 400, a refrigeration cycle 420 for generating cool air for freezing/refrigerating the goods, a sensor 430 for detecting information for defrosting, a data receiving unit 440 for receiving information related to energy, and a defrosting heater 460 for defrosting. Thus, in the current embodiment, the refrigeration cycle 420 and the defrosting heater 460 may be substantial energy consumption components.

In more detail, the control unit 410 controls an operation of the refrigeration cycle 420 for freezing/refrigerating the goods. Also, the control unit 410 operates the defrosting heater 460 according to a value detected by the sensor 430 to remove frost. For example, the sensor 430 may detect a temperature of an evaporator constituting the refrigeration cycle, and the control unit 410 determines whether the defrosting process is performed according to the value detected by the sensor 430, i.e., the temperature of the evaporator. That is, when the value detected by the sensor 430 is less than a preset temperature, the control unit 410 operates the defrosting heater 460 to remove the frost. For another example, when an operation time of a compressor constituting the refrigeration cycle elapses a preset time, the control unit 410 operates the defrosting heater 460 to move the frost.

Also, the control unit 410 determines whether an energy charge exists in an on-peak time or an off-peak time on the basis of information related to energy received into the data receiving unit 440. Also, the control unit 410 relatively reinforces a condition for starting of the defrosting process in the on-peak time when compared that in the off-peak time.

For example, when the defrosting process starts according to the temperature of the evaporator, the control unit 410 may control the defrosting heater 460 so that the defrosting process is performed when the value detected by the sensor 430, i.e., the temperature of the evaporator is lower in the on-peak time than the off-peak time. Also, in a case where the defrosting process is performed according to the operation time of the compressor, the defrosting heater 460 may be controlled so that the defrosting process starts only when a relatively long time elapses after the operation of the compressor starts. For this, the control unit 410 may differently set a reference value compared with the temperature of the evaporator or the operation time of the compressor to determine whether the defrosting process starts according to the presence of the on-peak time or the off-peak time.

For example, when the defrosting process starts according to the temperature of the evaporator, the control unit 410 may set so that a second set value compared with the temperature of the evaporator in the on-peak time is less than a first set value compared with the temperature detected by the sensor 430 in the off-peak time. Also, when the defrosting process starts according to the operation time of the compressor, the control unit 410 may set so that the second set value compared with the operation time of the compressor in the on-peak time is greater than the first set value compared with the operation time of the compressor in the off-peak time.

Hereinafter, a method of controlling the refrigerator capable of being applied into the network system according to an embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling the refrigerator capable of being applied into the network system according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 21, a control unit 410 determines whether an energy charge exists in an off-peak time according to information received into a data receiving unit 440 (S31). When the control unit 410 determines that the energy charge exists in the off-peak time in operation S31, the control unit 310 determines whether a value detected by a sensor 300, i.e., a temperature of an evaporator is less than a first set value (S33).

In the operation S33, when the value detected by the sensor 430 is less than the first set value, a starting condition of a defrosting process is satisfied. Thus, the control unit 410 controls an operation of a defrosting heater 460 so that the defrosting process is performed S35.

When it is determined that the energy charge does not exist in the off-peak time, i.e., exists in the on-peak time in the operation S31, the control unit 410 compares a value detected by the sensor 430 with a second set value (S37). Also, when it is determined that the value detected by the sensor 430 is less than the second set value in operation S37, the control unit 410 performs the operation S35 because the starting condition of the defrosting process is satisfied.

Of cause, when the starting condition of the defrosting process is determined according to the operation time of the compressor, the control unit 410 determines whether the defrosting process starts by comparing the operation time of the compressor with the first and second set values related to the time. Also, the control unit 410 determines whether the energy charge exists in the off-peak time or the on-peak time to determine whether the defrosting process starts according to whether the operation time of the compressor is greater than the first or second set value.

As described above, the starting condition of the defrosting process in the on-peak time may be reinforced in the refrigerator 400. Thus, the performance of the defrosting process in the on-peak time may be minimized in the refrigerator 400 to prevent the costs required for the defrosting process from being increased.

Hereinafter, a refrigerator capable of being applied into the network system according to another embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 22 is a block diagram of a refrigerator capable of being applied to the network system according to another embodiment. Among components of the refrigerator according to the current embodiment, descriptions with respect to the same components as those of the refrigerator according to the foregoing embodiment will be omitted.

Referring to FIG. 22, a refrigerator 400 according to the current embodiment includes a control unit 410, an ice making device 460, and an ice bank 470. The control unit 410 controls an operation of the ice making device 460. The ice making device 460 makes ices, and the ice bank 470 stores the ices made in the ice making device 460.

In detail, the ice making device 460 includes an ice making part 461, an ice transfer part 463, and a detection part 465. The ice making part 461 makes ices substantially. Also, the ice transfer part 463 transfers the ices made in the ice making part 461 into the ice bank 470. The detection part 465 detects an amount of ices stored in the ice bank 470. Thus, in the current embodiment, the ice making device 460, particularly, the ice making part 461 may be understood as an energy consumption component.

The control unit 410 controls the ice transfer part 463 so that the ices made in the ice making part 461 are transferred into the ice bank 470 according to the amount of ices stored in the ice bank 470 detected by the detection part 465. That is, the control unit 410 may control the ice transfer part 463 so that the ices are transferred into the ice bank 470 only when the amount (i.e., a value detected by the detection part 465) of ices stored in the ice bank 470 is less than a preset value (i.e., a set value). Also, when the ices are completely transferred into the ice bank 470 by the ice transfer part 463, the control unit 410 controls the ice making part 461 to make ices.

Also, the control unit 410 determines whether an energy charge exists in an on-peak time or an off-peak time on the basis of information related to energy received into a data receiving unit 440. The control unit 410 differently sets the set value compared with the value detected by the detection part 465 for transferring the ices according to whether the energy charge exists in the on-peak time or the off-peak time. That is, in the off-peak time, the control unit 410 compares the first set value with the value detected by the detection part 465. Also, in the on-peak time, the control unit 410 compares the second set value which is set to a value less than the first set value with the value detected by the detection part 465. Thus, in the on-peak time, the control unit 410 may substantially reinforce conditions for making ices in the ice making device 460 and transferring the ices.

Hereinafter, a method of the refrigerator capable of being applied into the network system according to another embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling the refrigerator capable of being applied into the network system according to another embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 23, a control unit 410 operates an ice making part 461 for making ices (S41). The control unit 410 determines whether an energy charge exists in an off-peak time according to information received into a data receiving unit 440 (S43). When the control unit 410 determines that the energy change exists in the off-peak time in the operation S43, the control unit 410 determines whether a value detected by a detection part 465, i.e., an amount of ices stored in an ice bank 470 is less than a first set value (S45).

In the operation S45, when the value detected by the detection part 465 is less than the first set value, the control unit 410 operates an ice making part 463 so that the ices made in the ice making part 461 are transferred into the ice bank 470 (S47). When the ices are completely transferred in the operation S47, the control unit 410 controls the ice making part 461 to make ices.

When it is determined that the energy charge does not exist in the off-peak time, i.e., exists in an on-peak time in the operation S43, the control unit 410 compares the value detected by the detection part 465 with a second set value (S49). Also, when it is determined that the value detected by the detection part 465 is less than the second set value in operation S49, the control unit 410 performs the operation S45.

As described above, the starting condition of the ice transfer process in the on-peak time may be reinforced in the refrigerator 40, and thus, the ice making starting condition linked with the starting condition of the ice transfer process may be reinforced. Thus, the starting of the ice making process in the on-peak time may be minimized in the refrigerator 400 to prevent the costs required for making ices from being increased.

Hereinafter, a water purifier capable of being applied into the network system according to an embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a water purifier capable of being applied to the network system according to an embodiment. FIG. 25 is a block diagram of the water purifier capable of being applied to the network system according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 24 and 25, a water purifier 500 is a home appliance for purifying water. The water purifier 500 may cool or heat purified water to supply cool or hot water. The water purifier 500 includes a control unit 510, a pump 520, a water storage tank 521, a sensor 530, and a date receiving unit 540.

In detail, the control unit 510 controls an operation of the pump 520 to store water in the water storage tank 521. The pump 520 is connected to an external water supply source to supply water into the water storage tank 521. Also, the sensor 530 detects a water level of the water stored in the water storage tank 521. The data receiving part 540 receives information related to energy. Thus, in the current embodiment, the pump 520 may be a substantial energy consumption component.

Although not shown, the water purifier 500 includes a filter member for purifying water. When the cool or hot water is supplied, the water purifier 500 may further include a refrigeration cycle for cooling water and a heating member for heating water.

The control unit 510 controls an operation of the pump 520 for supplying water into the water storage tank 521 according to a value detected by the sensor 530, i.e., an amount of water stored in the water storage tank 521. Also, the control unit 510 determines whether an energy charge exists in an on-peak time or an off-peak time on the basis of information related to energy received into a data receiving unit 540.

In the current embodiment, the control unit 510 may differently set a set value compared with the value detected by the sensor 530, i.e., the water level of the water stored in the water storage tank 521 to operate the pump 520 according to whether an energy charge exists in the on-peak time or an off-peak time. This is done a reason for relatively restricting the operation of the pump 520 in the on-peak time than the off-peak time.

That is to say, in the off-peak time, the control unit 510 compares a first set value with the value detected by the detection unit 565. Also, in the on-peak time, the control unit 510 compares a second set value which is set to a value less than the first set value with the value detected by the detection unit 565. Thus, in the on-peak time, the control unit 510 may operate the pump 520 to supply water into the water storage tank 521 only when an amount of water stored in the water storage tank 521 is substantially more less.

Hereinafter, a method of controlling the water purifier capable of being applied into the network system according to an embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling the water purifier capable of being applied into the network system according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 26, a control unit 510 determines whether an energy charge exists in an off-peak time according to information received into a data receiving unit 540 (S51). Also, when the control unit 510 determines that the energy change exists in the off-peak time in the operation S51, the control unit 510 determines whether the value detected by the sensor 530, i.e., the water level of the water stored in the water storage tank 521 is less than the first set value (S53).

In the operation S53, when the value detected by the sensor 530 is less than the first set value, the control unit 510 controls the pump 520 to operate the pump 520 (S55). Thus, the pump 520 may be operated to supply water into the water storage tank 521.

When it is determined that the energy charge does not exist in the off-peak time, i.e., exists in the on-peak time in the operation S51, the control unit 510 compares the value detected by the sensor 530 with the second set value (S57). Also, when it is determined that the value detected by the detection part 530 is less than the second set value in the operation S57, the control unit 510 performs the operation S55.

Although not shown, when the sensor 530 detects a full water level of the water stored in the water storage tank 521, the control unit 510 stops the operation of the pump 520. Thus, the water supply into the water storage tank 521 may be stopped.

As described above, only when a water level of the water stored in the water storage tank 521 is lower in the on-peak time in the water purifier 500, the pump 520 may be operated to supply water into the water storage tank 521. Thus, the operation of the pump 520 in the on-peak time may be minimized in the water purifier 500 to prevent the costs required for the operation of the pump 520 from being increased.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

According to the network system according to the embodiments, the energy source may be efficiently produced, used, distributed, and stored to effectively manage the energy source. Thus, its industrial applicability is very high. 

1. An energy consumption unit capable of communicating with a network system and capable of receiving electricity information related to information related to time-based pricing and information other than information related to time-based pricing, the energy consumption unit comprising: a component to perform a function of the energy consumption unit; a control unit to receive the electricity information related to the information related to time-based pricing and the information other than the information related to time-based pricing, wherein the control unit determines among a plurality of conditions and based on the electricity information, whether a condition is satisfied to cause the component to perform the function of the energy consumption unit.
 2. The energy consumption unit according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of conditions include a first condition and a second condition, and the control unit causes the component to perform the function of the energy consumption unit if the control unit determines that at least one of the first condition or the second condition is satisfied.
 3. The energy consumption unit according to claim 2, wherein the first condition and the second condition relates to a result detected by a detection unit, and the control unit causes the component to perform the function of the energy consumption unit when the first condition is unsatisfied and the second condition is satisfied.
 4. (canceled)
 5. The energy consumption unit according to claim 3, wherein, the control unit determines the first condition when the electricity information indicates low energy pricing, and the control unit determines the second condition when the electricity information indicates high energy pricing.
 6. The energy consumption unit according to claim 3, wherein the second condition is a moderated condition than the first condition.
 7. The energy consumption unit according to claim 6, wherein an energy usage amount or an energy usage charge of the energy consumption unit in a case where the performance or non-performance of the function in the second condition determined by the control unit is less than in a case where the performance or non-performance of the function in the first condition determined by the control unit.
 8. The energy consumption unit according to claim 6, wherein, when total energy cost generated during performance of the function of the energy consumption unit is greater than a reference charge, the control unit determines the performance or non-performance of the function by the second condition.
 9. The energy consumption unit according to claim 6, wherein, when a high-price period exists within a set time after an estimated performance of the function end time point of the component, the control unit determines the performance or non-performance of the function by the second condition.
 10. The energy consumption unit according to claim 6, wherein performing of the function comprises performing a course among a plurality of courses, and the course comprises a dehydrating course of a washing machine, and the first or second condition relates to whether a washing cloth within a washing bath is balanced or unbalanced.
 11. The energy consumption unit according to claim 6, wherein the performing of the function comprises a defrosting function of a refrigerator, and the first or second condition relates to at least one of a temperature of an evaporator of the refrigerator and an operation time of a compressor of the refrigerator.
 12. The energy consumption unit according to claim 6, wherein the performing of the function comprises an ice storage function of an ice making device, and the first or second condition relates to an amount of ices stored in the ice making device.
 13. The energy consumption unit according to claim 6, wherein the performing of the function comprises a water supply operation of a water purifier, and the first or second condition relates to a water level of a water storage tank of the water purifier.
 14. The energy consumption unit according to claim 6, wherein, the control unit determines the first condition when a time point for determining whether the performance or non-performance of the function exists in a low-price information period, and the control unit determines the second condition when the time point for determining the performance or non-performance of the function exists in a high-price information period.
 15. (canceled)
 16. The energy consumption unit according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of conditions comprise: a first condition in which a result detected by a detection unit of the energy consumption component is compared with a set value; and a second condition comprises at least one of conditions related to energy consumption information and information regarding the function of the energy consumption component, and a number of times the first condition is unsatisfied.
 17. (canceled)
 18. (canceled)
 19. (canceled)
 20. (canceled)
 21. (canceled)
 22. (canceled)
 23. The energy consumption unit according to claim 2, wherein in a stage period that precedes the performance of the function of the energy consumption unit, the control unit determines the performance or non-performance of the function by the first condition if the stage period is in a low-price period, and the control unit determines the performance or non-performance of the function by the second condition if the stage period is in a high-price period.
 24. The network system according to claim 2, wherein in a stage period that precedes the performance of the function of the energy consumption unit, the control unit determines the performance or non-performance of the function by the first condition if an accumulated energy charge in the stage period is less than a reference value, and the control unit determines the performance or non-performance of the function by the second condition if the accumulated energy charge exceeds the reference value.
 25. (canceled)
 26. (canceled)
 27. (canceled)
 28. The energy consumption unit according to claim 1, wherein performing the function comprises performing a course among a plurality of courses, when the course comprises: a first course; and a second course performed after the first course is finished, wherein, when the second course is to be performed, the control unit determines the performance or non-performance of the second course based on the condition among the plurality of conditions and the electricity information.
 29. The energy consumption unit according to claim 28, wherein the condition among the plurality of conditions comprises whether a repeated number of first course is greater than a predetermined number.
 30. The energy consumption unit according to claim 28, wherein the condition among the plurality of conditions comprises whether a time at which the first course is performed is greater than a predetermined time. 